05/18/2026
Dear friends,
Thirty years ago today, May 18, 1996, I graduated from LSU School of Dentistry and began the journey of fulfilling a lifelong dream — caring for patients through the profession of dentistry. At that time, I could never have imagined the relationships, memories, and blessings this path would bring into my life. Today, on that same anniversary, I find myself writing one of the most difficult letters of my life as it is with a very full yet heavy heart that I announce my retirement and the closing of Lagniappe Dental Spa effective July 1, 2026.
Many of you know that I was diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy 11 years ago. Since that time, I have been unable to practice dentistry in the way I always envisioned and loved. Over the years, I remained hopeful that the right associate would come along — someone who shared the philosophy and spirit of this practice and who might one day continue it forward. While we have been fortunate to have talented dentists work alongside us, no one has ultimately chosen to carry the practice on permanently.
That reality has made this decision incredibly difficult.
This practice was never built around volume, insurance plans, or production numbers. It was built around people. Around relationships. Around trust, kindness, teamwork, and treating patients like family. We intentionally created something different here — a place where conversations mattered, where patients were known by name, where our team became your lifelong friends, and where dentistry was personal.
To walk away from something that has meant so much to me for so many years is not easy to put into words.
I have been deeply blessed by the relationships this profession has given me. Many of you have been with us for decades. We have celebrated milestones together, watched families grow, and shared laughter, tears, and life stories far beyond dentistry. Your loyalty, support, and friendship have meant more to me than I could ever adequately express.
I am equally grateful for my incredible team members Tanya and Keeyon who helped shape this office into what it has become, especially over the past 10 years. Their compassion, dedication, and love for our patients made this practice feel like home. There are no words to describe what they have meant to me through the years, and I know that you feel the same way too.
I would be remiss if I didn’t also acknowledge my family, who have been along on this magnificent ride with me, especially my husband Jason, who has been with me since the very beginning. And to my children Jackson and Savannah – this life path allowed me to be your mom and your biggest supporter. For that I will be eternally thankful.
While this chapter is coming to a close, I will always carry immense pride and gratitude for what we built together. Thank you for allowing me the privilege of caring for you and your families over the years. It has truly been one of the greatest honors of my life. “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms” – 1 Peter 4:10-11
With heartfelt gratitude,
Lisa L Mathews DDS
