A Local Dentist Dedicated to Lifelong Health and Whole-Body Wellness

Meet Dr. Denise Henderson

Trusted Dentist in Palo Alto

Dr. Denise Henderson, a Bay Area native with over 20 years of experience, is known for her compassionate care and clinical excellence. Based in Palo Alto, she’s dedicated to providing comfortable, comprehensive dental care focused on long-term wellness.

Education, Training & Journey into Dentistry

Dr. Henderson’s path to dentistry began right here in the Bay Area, where she was born and raised. After graduating from Saratoga High School, she pursued a Bachelor of Science in Ecology and Evolution at the University of California, Santa Barbara — including a year abroad at the University of Queensland in Australia. She went on to earn her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the prestigious University of Michigan in Ann Arbor in 2003.

From the beginning, Dr. Henderson knew she wanted to return to her roots. After graduation, she came back to the Bay Area to serve the community that shaped her — and she’s been proudly practicing in Palo Alto ever since.

Her Philosophy: Compassionate, Comprehensive Care

At the core of Dr. Henderson’s approach is a deep belief in the connection between oral health and whole-body wellness. Her care philosophy goes beyond treating teeth; it’s about helping patients understand the impact of dental health on overall systemic health and making confident, informed decisions about their care.

She is especially known for her calming presence and dedication to patient education — always taking the time to explain treatment options clearly so patients can make choices that align with their goals and values.

The Work of Dr. Henderson

As a family and cosmetic dentist, she treats patients of all ages — from young children to seniors — with a full range of services, including:

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A Practice That Feels Like Home

Dr. Henderson’s compassionate team provides personalized, judgment-free care to patients from Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Mountain View, Los Altos, Stanford, and surrounding areas. We welcome new patients and offer evaluations—whether you’re seeking relief, a brighter smile, or a dentist who truly listens.

Staying Current to Provide the Best for Patients

Dr. Henderson is an advocate of lifelong learning and clinical excellence. She consistently expands her knowledge through continuing education courses, webinars, and hands-on workshops to stay ahead of the latest techniques and technologies in dentistry.

She maintains active membership in the following professional organizations:

American Dental Association (ADA)
California Dental Association (CDA)
Mid-Peninsula Dental Society
Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)
Academy of Osseointegration

This commitment to innovation helps her offer advanced tools like digital impressions (iTero), laser dentistry, and sleep apnea treatment that elevate the care experience and outcomes for her patients.

Life Beyond the Dental Chair

Outside of the office, Dr. Henderson finds her joy in family, nature, and sports. She loves spending quality time with her husband and two children, often outdoors, playing tennis, skiing, or horseback riding. The family shares their home with a lovable Cavaliere Spaniel, a charming Basset Hound, a bearded dragon, and a chinchilla — all part of what they lovingly call their “mini farm.”

This balance of professional passion and personal fulfillment is what allows Dr. Henderson to show up for her patients with genuine presence and energy.