David A. Bensinger
David A. Bensinger received his undergraduate degree from Washington University and earned his dental degree from St. Louis University School of Dentistry in 1948. In 1977 Bensinger received a degree in health systems management from the Harvard Graduate School of Business Administration.
Bensinger joined the faculty of the Washington University School of Dentistry in 1948 as an instructor of dental medicine; he became an associate professor in 1956 and a full professor in 1976. He was named assistant dean in 1967 and associate dean in 1973. The major renovation of the School of Dentistry building, completed in 1972, was completed under his supervision. From July to September 1976, between the retirement of John T. Bird and the arrival of George D. Selfridge, Bensinger served as acting dean. After the retirement of Dr. Selfridge in 1987, Bensinger was appointed dean, serving until his retirement in 1989.
In 1968, the Washington University Alumni Association named Bensinger Alumnus of the Year, honoring him for his work to prevent closure of the school the previous year. A specialist in periodontics, Bensinger served as president of the Midwestern Society of Periodontists; he also served as president of the Missouri Dental Association and was also a fellow of both the American College of Dentists and the International College of Dentists.