Meet Our Dentists at Family Dentistry
in Sterling Heights, MI
CALL US: 586-939-3333 REQUEST APPOINTMENT
Dr. Jim Van Eaton
Dr. Jim Van Eaton joined the practice in 1991. He graduated from the New York University College of Dentistry in 1986. He is a member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. He enjoys all facets of dentistry with a concentration in implant dentistry and smile makeovers.
He and his wife Barb have been married since 1991. They enjoy traveling on their boat, and spending time with their golden retriever Stella. In 2014 after a long courageous battle Dr. Van Eaton lost his son Adam to a brain tumor. Dr. Van Eaton along with the rest of our staff have been very active in supporting the American Brain Tumor Association.
Dr. Bruce A. Gallant
Dr. Bruce A. Gallant joined the practice in 1972. He is also a graduate of the University of Detroit, Class of 1970. Dr. Gallant is a member of the Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, American Orthodontic Society and also a member of the American Academy of Head, Neck, Facial Pain, and TMJ Orthopedics. He travels across the nation with the United States Dental Institute teaching orthodontics (usdinstitute.com).
Dr. Gallant has been married to his wife Carole since 1968. Together they have two amazing children, and two grandchildren. He served in the United States Air Force from 1970-72.
Dr. Michelle Howarah
Dr. Michelle Howarah is a Michigan native with a passion for dental and overall health care. She graduated with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Detroit Mercy. As she continues to practice dentistry, she values the relationships formed with each and every patient. She strongly believes in continuing education, treating patients with the most advanced dentistry and takes great pride in staying current with the latest dental research, techniques and developments.
Dr. Michelle is a member of the American Academy of Clear Aligners where she has gained a passion for combining cosmetic dentistry with Invisalign. She has studied and trained with the United States Dental Institute focusing on orthodontics in children and adults. She has been married to her husband Paul since 2017. In her free time she enjoys biking, reading and spending time with her husband and family.
Dr. Timothy Ponkowski
Dr. Tim Ponkowski was born and raised in Grosse Pointe Park, MI. He attended U of D Jesuit High School where he played soccer and swam. He then went on to attend the University of Detroit Mercy in the 7-year dental program, which allows highly qualified students to earn their Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in addition to the baccalaureate degree in seven years, rather than in the traditional eight years. He enjoys all aspects of dentistry.
He has been married to his wife Rachel since 2019. In his free time, he enjoys playing soccer, running, and cheering on Detroit sports with his family and friends.
He looks forward to meeting you and helping you keep your smile healthy and bright!
Dr. Russell J. Horton , - Retired
Dr. Russell J. Horton started our practice in 1970. He is a graduate of the University of Detroit, Class of 1965. Dr. Horton served as a dentist in the Army from 1965 to 1969. He has dedicated his career to building a practice that is family orientated, (hence the name!) He has been married to his wife Rhoda for over 40 years, has 3 daughters and 9 grandchildren.