Dr. Stanley Toporek
(in Memoriam)



Having practiced for over fifty years in dentistry, Dr. Stanley Toporek set a foundation for success with West Ashley Dental Associates through hard work and contious learning. Dr. Martin claims that he has seen no other dental work that compares to his father’s. Dr. Stanley’s treatment planning and comprehensive approach matched with his consistency and meticulous detail allowed him to rehabilitate patients mouth in a way that would function correctly, look good and last for as long as fifty years and counting. Dr Martin works hard everyday to make his father proud and continue on a fifty year family tradition of quality comprehensive dentistry.

Dr. Stanley Toporek’s interest in dentistry began in High School after writing a research paper on dental health. His passion for the healing arts was further fostered during dental school when a local hospital, experiencing a shortage of nurses, offered qualifying candidates an opportunity to train “on the job.” With a growing interest in medicine and pharmacology and mentored by Charleston dentist and family friend, Dr. Stanley Karesh, Stanley Toporek entered the Medical College of Virginia School of Dentistry. While in dental school, he continued nursing and worked, as his schedule would permit, in the budding specialty of Plastic Surgery and Orthopedics. This experience influenced his desires to see dentistry expand from “treating disease and tooth decay” to providing patients with confidence and a dynamic smile.

Being sensitive to patient’s esthetic needs, but knowing that biting forces can challenge the strongest metals and porcelains, in summers between the years of dental school, Dr. Toporek was employed with a local dental lab. They allowed him to work (and learn) about the fabrication of dental restorations in exchange for lunches and pocket change. At chairside with patients when he explains the value of receiving beautiful dental care that provides the best function, maintainability, comfort and esthetics.

Dr. Toporek was quick to credit those who guided and influenced his passionate pursuit of knowledge and learning how to “better the best.”

Forty years of experience comprised an education unavailable in the dental educational forum. Yet, Dr. Toporek was quick to credit those who guided and influenced his passionate pursuit of knowledge and learning how to “better the best.” Wonderful post graduate educational institutions such as L.D.Pankey, renowned Periodontist, Marvin Surgarman whose philosophy to “Think Perio First” has saved thousands of teeth and his long-term friend, mentor and patient, Dr. Stanley Karesh. Retirement was not a tempting option when you love what you do. So, Dr. T enjoyed a reduced work schedule which gave more time to continue his love for research and education and spend time with his family, grandchildren and play golf.

In his early years of practice, Dr. Toporek was a part time clinical associate professor of crown and bridge dentistry at the Medical University of South Carolina School of Dentistry. Many of his colleagues tell him that the helpful procedures he taught them in dental school are still being used today. Dr. Toporek has lectured extensively on the local, state and national levels on dentistry and practice management.

Honors and Memberships

  • American Dental Association
  • South Carolina Dental Association
  • Academy of General Dentistry, International College of Dentists
  • South Carolina Academy of Practice Administration
  • American Academy of Dental Practice Administration

Distinguished Memberships

  • Fellow Academy of General Dentistry
  • Federal International College of Dentists
  • Pierre Fauchard Academy