The Charles Henderson Medical Center gained its newest member when pediatric dentist Dr. Eddie Jackson joined the staff.

Officially starting in Troy on May 1, Jackson graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2003 and practiced adult dentistry in Georgia for two years before moving to Birmingham to work in pediatric dentistry. Jackson then moved to Dothan and Montgomery.

A resident of Montgomery, Jackson took the position at Charles Henderson, joining Dr. Amy Flowers as a general dentist, focusing on pediatrics.

“When I was at dental school I never thought I would do pediatric dentistry,” Jackson said. “But now it’s my true passion and my calling. I love dealing with children. It’s fun and overall I love being able to see kids from a young age and build relationships with them as they get older.”

Jackson grew up around the dentistry field, with a mother who was a dental technician and two uncles involved in dentistry, as well.

Jackson also stated he did well in science-related classes, making dentistry a natural fit where he finds enjoyment.

“Overall, I like doing what I do because, with both adult and pediatric dentistry, someone can come in with problems with their teeth and have low self-esteem,” he said. “You can go in and do something with crowns or fillings and make them the happiest person in the world and really change their life.”

Although Jackson was previously familiar with the city of Troy, the sense of community and friendship was a noticeable change compared to some of the larger cities he’s lived in. He also appreciates the Medical Center’s drive to serve the citizens of Troy.

“When I initially got interested in the job, we talked back and forth and I came to visit,” he said. “I was very impressed with the facility and what they do here. It’s great for the community and really serves a purpose and I want to be a part of that.”

Jackson is currently operating at the Medical Center full-time, and lives in Montgomery with his wife of 12 years, Cheryl, and his three children Brent, Bryce and Braden.