Arizona Center for Oral Surgery is proud to welcome Dr. Steven Hengen Jr., DMD, MD, the newest oral surgeon to join our Glendale, AZ practice. A Phoenix-area native and dual-degree oral and maxillofacial surgeon, Dr. Hengen returns home to the Valley after more than eleven years of advanced education and surgical training across the country.
“After training across the country, there’s nothing better than being back home in the Valley — using everything I’ve learned to help the community that raised me.”
— Dr. Steven Hengen Jr., DMD, MD
A Valley Native Who Trained Across the Country
Dr. Hengen grew up in Phoenix and graduated from Gilbert High School before earning his bachelor’s degree at Arizona State University. He went on to complete his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) at the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry, graduating with Honors and earning induction into Omicron Kappa Upsilon, the national dental honor society.
He then pursued his medical degree (MD) at McGovern Medical School in Houston, followed by a six-year Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery residency at UTHealth Science Center at Houston. His training also included a two-year General Surgery certificate and the full scope of adult and pediatric anesthesiology — preparation that allows him to manage complex cases and patient comfort with confidence.
Why He Chose This Specialty
When asked what drew him to oral and maxillofacial surgery, Dr. Hengen points to a love of everything the specialty brings together. “I chose a career as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon because I enjoy surgery, medicine and dentistry,” he says. “I love working with my team, meeting new patients, and overcoming challenges together.” The most rewarding part of the job, he adds, is seeing his patients’ happiness and confidence in their new smile.
A Patient-First Approach
That collaborative spirit carries into the way he cares for patients — especially those who feel anxious about surgery or anesthesia. “I strive to be honest and collaborative with all of my patients,” Dr. Hengen explains. “Taking the time to ensure understanding and expectations helps to alleviate nervousness and uncertainty.” He emphasizes that every patient is treated with respect, and that patient safety is the team’s number one priority.
Full-Scope Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
As a dual-degree surgeon, Dr. Hengen practices the full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery. His clinical interests include:
- Dental extractions, including wisdom teeth
- Dental implant surgery
- Bone grafting
- Corrective jaw (orthognathic) surgery
- Facial trauma and reconstruction
He is a member of the American Dental Association, the American Medical Association, and the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons — reflecting a commitment to the highest standards in both dentistry and medicine.
Coming Home to the Valley
After training in Lexington and Houston, returning to Arizona was always the plan. “I enjoyed my time in Kentucky and in Texas, but I always knew I wanted to raise my children where I grew up,” he says, pointing to the outdoors, the sun, the people, and Arizona sports. For patients searching for an experienced oral surgeon in Glendale, AZ, that means a surgeon who knows this community because it’s home. Fluent in Spanish, he’s able to help more families across Glendale, Peoria, Surprise, and the greater Phoenix valley feel understood and at ease throughout their care.
Beyond the Operatory
Away from the operatory, most of Dr. Hengen’s time goes to his wife and kids. The rest is spent on live music, Arizona sports, guitar, and grilling — ribs and ribeye steaks are his go-to, alongside an ongoing (and admittedly humbling) quest to master smoky Texas brisket. His household also includes two memorably named companions: Gigi, named after Gigi Hadid for being tall and graceful, and Chilaquiles, an axolotl who started out as “Achilles” before being renamed for one of his favorite breakfast foods. His hype song before a long surgery day? “Quit While I’m Ahead” by the Turnpike Troubadours.
Schedule a Consultation
Whether you need wisdom teeth removed, are considering dental implants, or have been referred for a more complex procedure, Dr. Hengen and the team at Arizona Center for Oral Surgery are here to help. To schedule a consultation with our Glendale oral surgery team, call (623) 931-9197 or request an appointment today.
