Maxine Feinberg

Maxine Feinberg is an American dentist renowned for her extensive leadership within organized dentistry and her advocacy for public health policy. She served as the president of the American Dental Association (ADA), the nation's largest dental association, from 2014 to 2015. Her tenure focused on improving access to dental care, advancing the profession, and strengthening the ADA's role in national health discussions.

Early life and education

Feinberg pursued her higher education in the health sciences, culminating in a dental degree. She earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, a prestigious institution known for its rigorous clinical training. Her academic foundation at the University of Pennsylvania provided a strong basis for her future clinical practice and organizational leadership. Following her graduation, she entered private practice, specializing in general dentistry in her home state of New Jersey.

Career

Feinberg maintained a successful private practice for over three decades, building a reputation for patient-centered care in Cranford, New Jersey. Her career trajectory expanded significantly through her deep involvement with organized dentistry at the local, state, and national levels. She held numerous elected and appointed positions within the New Jersey Dental Association before ascending to national prominence within the American Dental Association. Her work often intersected with key issues such as dental insurance reform, Medicaid expansion for dental benefits, and the integration of dental health into broader public health initiatives. Feinberg also contributed to policy discussions alongside entities like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health.

Professional affiliations and leadership

Feinberg's leadership roles within professional organizations are extensive and marked by a commitment to advocacy and governance. Prior to her presidency, she served on the American Dental Association Board of Trustees and chaired several critical councils, including those focused on governmental affairs and dental practice. She has been a long-standing delegate to the ADA House of Delegates and held the presidency of the New Jersey Dental Association. Furthermore, Feinberg has been active with the American Dental Political Action Committee (ADPAC), advocating for dentistry's interests before the United States Congress. Her influence extends to educational institutions and commissions, where she has advised on curriculum and licensure matters.

Awards and recognition

In recognition of her dedicated service, Feinberg has received numerous accolades from the dental community. Her highest honor is the American Dental Association Distinguished Service Award, one of the ADA's most prestigious recognitions. She has also been awarded the New Jersey Dental Association’s highest honor, the Distinguished Service Award. Other recognitions include honorary memberships and awards from various dental societies and the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine for her alumni achievements. These awards underscore her impact on policy, professional ethics, and the advancement of dental care standards.

Personal life

Feinberg resides in New Jersey and is married to Dr. Howard Feinberg, a periodontist. The couple has two children. Beyond her professional endeavors, she is involved in community and philanthropic activities within the New Jersey area. Her personal and professional life reflects a sustained commitment to both family and the improvement of oral health for the public.

Category:American dentists Category:American Dental Association people Category:University of Pennsylvania alumni Category:Living people