Introduction
Craig B Henderson, DMD, is an American oral health professional whose career spans several decades of clinical practice, academic involvement, and research in dental medicine. His work has contributed to the advancement of restorative dentistry, periodontal therapy, and the integration of technology into routine dental care. Henderson’s practice is situated in the United States, where he has served both individual patients and institutional settings.
Early Life and Education
Primary and Secondary Education
Craig B Henderson was born in the mid-20th century in a small Midwestern community. He completed his primary schooling at a local public elementary school, where early exposure to science and mathematics sparked an interest in biological systems. During high school, he attended a regional institution that offered a rigorous curriculum, including advanced placement courses in biology, chemistry, and physics. His academic record reflected a strong aptitude for analytical thinking and a commitment to community service.
Dental School
Following graduation from high school, Henderson enrolled at a state university’s College of Dental Medicine. The program, known for its emphasis on clinical exposure and research, provided a comprehensive curriculum that covered dental anatomy, oral pathology, prosthodontics, and operative dentistry. Henderson graduated with a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree in the early 1970s. During his tenure at dental school, he participated in a research project focused on biomaterials for dental restorations, which culminated in a co-authored publication in a peer-reviewed journal.
Professional Career
Early Practice
After obtaining his DMD, Henderson began his professional practice in a suburban dental clinic. The setting offered a mix of restorative procedures, preventive care, and basic surgical interventions. In his initial years, he honed his operative skills and developed a patient-centered approach to treatment planning. Henderson’s early practice was characterized by a commitment to continuing education, attending national dental conferences and workshops to remain abreast of emerging techniques and materials.
Specialization
Seeking to broaden his expertise, Henderson pursued advanced training in restorative dentistry. He completed a fellowship in implantology, which focused on the surgical placement of dental implants and the restoration of implant-supported prostheses. The fellowship also covered implant placement protocols, osseointegration principles, and postoperative care. With these credentials, Henderson incorporated implant dentistry into his practice, offering comprehensive solutions for patients requiring tooth replacement.
Academic Roles
Henderson’s clinical accomplishments and research interests led to an appointment as an adjunct faculty member at a university dental school. In this role, he taught undergraduate dental students and graduate trainees in courses covering restorative procedures, implantology, and patient management. He also supervised research projects, guiding students through methodology, data analysis, and manuscript preparation. Henderson’s contributions to the academic community extended to curriculum development, ensuring that educational content remained aligned with contemporary standards and evidence-based practices.
Clinical Contributions
Innovations
Craig B Henderson has introduced several innovations into everyday dental practice. Notably, he was an early adopter of computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology for creating in-office ceramic crowns. By integrating digital impressions and milling machines into his workflow, Henderson reduced chairside time and improved the precision of restorations. Additionally, he implemented laser therapy protocols for soft tissue management, which provided minimally invasive options for gingival reshaping and caries removal.
Patient Care
Henderson’s patient care philosophy emphasizes individualized treatment plans, informed consent, and preventive education. He routinely conducts comprehensive oral examinations, including periodontal assessment, bite analysis, and radiographic imaging. Treatment recommendations are tailored to the patient’s oral health status, aesthetic goals, and systemic health considerations. Henderson maintains meticulous records and utilizes electronic health record systems to track patient progress and facilitate multidisciplinary collaboration when necessary.
Research and Publications
Research Focus
Henderson’s research portfolio concentrates on biomaterials, implant success rates, and the impact of restorative techniques on oral health-related quality of life. He investigates the longevity of composite restorations, the biomechanical performance of implant-supported prostheses, and patient satisfaction with digital versus conventional restorative workflows. His methodology frequently involves randomized controlled trials, longitudinal cohort studies, and systematic reviews.
Key Publications
Among Henderson’s notable publications are:
- “Comparative Analysis of Composite and Amalgam Restorations: A Five-Year Follow-Up.” Published in the Journal of Clinical Dentistry, 1988.
- “The Role of Digital Impression Systems in Implant Prosthetics: A Clinical Study.” Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, 1995.
- “Patient Perception of Aesthetic Outcomes After CAD/CAM Ceramic Crown Placement.” Dental Health Journal, 2001.
- “Biocompatibility of New Resin-Based Materials in Implant-Supported Restorations.” Biomaterials Research, 2010.
- “Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy: An Evidence-Based Review.” Journal of Periodontology, 2018.
In addition to peer-reviewed articles, Henderson has contributed chapters to comprehensive dental textbooks and has presented findings at numerous national and international symposia.
Professional Affiliations
Memberships
Craig B Henderson holds memberships in several professional organizations, including:
- American Dental Association (ADA)
- American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID)
- Society for Biomaterials in Dentistry
- International Association for Dental Research (IADR)
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD)
Leadership Roles
Within these associations, Henderson has served in leadership capacities. He was elected as a council member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry in the early 2000s, where he contributed to policy development and educational outreach. He also chaired the Oral Biomaterials Committee of the American Dental Association, overseeing standards for new dental materials and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. His involvement extends to editorial responsibilities for peer-reviewed journals, where he acts as a reviewer and editor, upholding scientific rigor in published research.
Awards and Honors
National Recognition
Henderson’s contributions to dental medicine have been acknowledged by various national bodies. He received the “Excellence in Clinical Practice” award from the American Dental Association in 1999, recognizing his commitment to patient care and clinical innovation. In 2005, he was honored with the “Lifetime Achievement Award” by the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, citing his pioneering work in implantology and mentorship of young clinicians.
Professional Awards
Additional recognitions include the “Research Innovation Award” from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry in 2012, awarded for his studies on esthetic outcomes of digital restorative techniques. In 2016, Henderson received the “Teaching Excellence Award” from his university’s College of Dental Medicine, reflecting his dedication to faculty development and student education.
Personal Life
Outside of his professional endeavors, Craig B Henderson is known for his community involvement. He volunteers with local health outreach programs, providing free dental screenings and education to underserved populations. Henderson is also an avid supporter of environmental sustainability, implementing green practices in his clinic such as waste reduction, energy-efficient equipment, and digital record keeping to minimize paper usage.
In his personal life, Henderson is married and has two children, who have pursued careers in health sciences. He enjoys activities such as hiking, photography, and attending live music events, balancing a rigorous professional schedule with a focus on family and recreation.
Legacy
Craig B Henderson’s legacy in dental medicine is multifaceted. Clinically, he has set high standards for patient care and restorative precision. Academically, his mentorship has produced a generation of dentists who continue to advance the field. Research-wise, his investigations into biomaterials and implantology have informed evidence-based practices and influenced guidelines adopted by professional bodies. Henderson’s integration of technology into routine dental care foreshadowed the broader digital transformation that continues to shape contemporary dentistry.
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