Dr. Hilton Israelson, a renowned dentist and respected member of the Dallas dental community, passed away on Friday, May 19, 2023. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy as a practitioner of exceptional skill, a leader in his field, and a compassionate caregiver. With a profound dedication to dental excellence, Hilton made a significant impact on the lives of his patients and colleagues throughout his illustrious career.
Hilton's journey in dentistry began with a strong passion for helping others achieve optimal oral health. He completed his Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree at the University of Witwatersrand School of Dental Medicine in Johannesburg, South Africa in 1973. Continuing his education at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, he obtained his degree in Periodontics in 1976.
As an esteemed professional, Hilton was affiliated with numerous prestigious dental organizations, including the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, Academy of Osseointegration, Alpha Omega, American Academy of Periodontology, American Board of Periodontology, Southwest Society of Periodontists, and Texas Society of Periodontists. His active involvement in these organizations demonstrated his commitment to staying at the forefront of advancements in dentistry and collaborating with colleagues to elevate the standards of dental care.
Hilton's leadership and expertise were recognized by his peers, leading him to serve as the Fifteenth District Trustee of the American Dental Association (ADA) from 2012 to 2015 and as a Delegate from 2007-2008 and again in 1999 to 2005. During his tenure within the ADA, he contributed significantly to various committees, including the Council on Dental Education and Licensure, Audit Committee, Mega Topic Planning Group, Committee on International Programs and Development, Information Technology Committee, Strategic Planning Steering Committee, and Choosing Wisely Workgroup. Hilton's contributions and visionary leadership were invaluable in shaping the dental profession and advancing dental education and licensure.
Within the Texas Dental Association (TDA), Hilton played a pivotal role, serving as President from 2008 to 2009, President-elect from 2007 to 2008, Vice President in 2004, Senior Director in 2003, Director in 2002, and Delegate from 1999 to 2001. Additionally, he served as the Chair of the Future Focus Committee and served on the Council on Dental Education, Trade and Ancillaries. Hilton's contributions to the TDA were recognized with the prestigious TDA President's Award in 2006 and 2011, as well as the prestigious TDA Gold Medal Award in 2016, highlighting his dedication and outstanding leadership.
At the local level, Hilton made significant contributions through his involvement with the Dallas County Dental Society (DCDS), where he served as President from 1999 to 2000 and President-elect from 1998 to 1999. He played an active role on various committees, including the DCDS Foundation Board, Financial Advisory Committee, Building Committee, Nominating Committee, Strategic Planning Committee, Legislative Action Committee, Leadership Development Committee, Awards Committee, Budget Committee, and Scientific Committee. Hilton's commitment to DCDS was also evident through his contributions to the Dallas Midwinter (Southwest Dental Conference) as Chairman in 1998. In addition to being the impetus behind the component society acquiring the standalone building that it now owns and occupies, Hilton was the founder of the Dallas County Dental Society Dental Assisting School, a state-of-the-art facility designed to educate and train high quality dental assistants.
Hilton's professional accomplishments were marked by numerous accolades and honors. He became a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology in 1981, a Fellow of the American College of Dentists, and a Fellow of the International College of Dentists. Hilton's remarkable achievements were further recognized with awards such as the ADA Presidential Citation in 2014, the President's Award from the Texas Society of Periodontology in 2008, DCDS Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013, and Dentist of the Year from the DCDS in 2006.
In addition to his private practice, where he specialized in Periodontics and Dental Implants in Richardson, Texas, Hilton served from 1977 to 1979 as a clinical instructor in periodontics at the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, and from 1979 to 1989 as a faculty member at the Texas A&M College of Dentistry (formally Baylor College of Dentistry) as assistant clinical professor. From 1989 to 2000, he served as an associate clinical professor in the college’s department of periodontics. Through this academic appointment, he contributed to shaping the next generation of dental professionals and imparting his wealth of knowledge and experience.
Beyond his professional achievements, Hilton was a devoted family man. He shared 49 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Maureen Israelson, and they were blessed with three children, Alana, Carla, and Justin. Hilton found immense joy in his role as a grandfather to six grandsons, creating lasting memories and cherishing their time together.
Throughout his career, Hilton Israelson, DDS, made an indelible impact on the dental profession, demonstrating unwavering commitment to excellence, leadership, and patient care. His profound contributions will continue to shape the dental community and inspire future generations. Hilton will be fondly remembered as a dedicated professional, a compassionate caregiver, a beloved mentor, and a cherished family man. His legacy will forever resonate in the hearts and minds of those who had the privilege of knowing him.
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Donations in honor of Dr. Israelson may be made through the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation at: https://www.djcf.org/donate. From that webpage, please click the drop-down menu and select the “Hilton Israelson Memorial Fund” whose beneficiary shall be the Dallas County Dental Society Foundation. Thank you for helping to honor his memory.