Dr. Heather Schneider has joined Delta Dental of Arizona as dental director, bringing a dentist’s perspective to the management team of the state’s top dental insurance carrier. Dr. Schneider previously served the organization in a part-time consulting role, assisting with dental claims reviews. In her new role, Schneider now oversees Delta Dental of Arizona’s dental consultants and the utilization management program, a key tool in controlling the cost of dental benefits. She will also focus on strengthening relationships with network dentists and assist with product development. In addition, Dr. Schneider will work closely with the Delta Dental of Arizona Board of Directors and serve on its Dental Policy Committee.

“Dr. Schneider brings a fresh perspective, energy and invaluable first-hand knowledge of patient care and dental practice management to our day-to-day business,” said Allan Allford, president/CEO at Delta Dental of Arizona. “Her work in the industry, first as a dental assistant and then as a dentist, as well as her extensive training and experience in dental administration, dental education and clinical dentistry, gives her invaluable insight and makes her uniquely qualified to ensure we continue to provide evidence-based benefits coverage, serve our stakeholders well and grow our membership.”


Dr. Schneider earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine Degree from the Arizona School of Dental and Oral Health at A.T. Still University, followed by an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency through NYU Lutheran Hospitals in Mesa, Ariz., extending her surgical and specialty skill set. With a special interest in dental education, Dr. Schneider serves as an adjunct instructional dentist at A.T. Still University, guiding student doctors toward their own clinical and procedural success. She is also involved with the American Institute of Dental Assisting, where she supports the education of dental assisting students. Dr. Schneider is an active member of national and state dental organizations including the American Dental Association, the Arizona State Dental Association, the Central Arizona Dental Society, the Academy of General Dentists and the American Dental Education Association. In addition, she has served on several committees at the Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health including Admissions, Student Success, Faculty Development and Faculty Learning.

“Dr. Schneider is known by our team as well as by her patients, students and colleagues for her genuine ability to care for, uplift, support and connect with people,” said Allford. “We are excited to welcome her to our team as we work together with our network dentists, brokers and group clients to improve Arizonans’ oral health.”