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2900 BCE
Early Signs of Dentist Work
Although the term or profession of a dentist may not have been used, there have been signs of dentist-like work that dates back to 2900 to 2750 BCE. An Egyptian skull showed similar small holes that are used in a procedure to drain pus which is generally located near the root of a tooth. Although oral hygiene wasn't the best, it seems like they were trying. It is amazing to see care being given to oral upkeep so early in life. See More -
Jan 1, 1530
First Book Dedicated to Dentistry
Germany is where the first book solely based on the field of dentistry was published. A fun fact is that it was not written in Latin but in 'the German language instead. This was so important because around this time, barbers that were also surgeons usually neglected oral care. This finally provided much needed information for dentists. This was interesting because of how long dentistry was around and then it finally got a book. See More -
DENTIST Enters the English Language
The term dentist entered the English language in 1759 with its roots embedded in the French and Latin language. The word tooth in French is dent and in Latin it is dentem. The word dentist in French is dentiste. See More -
First American-Born Dentist
Beginning his practice in 1779, Isaac Greenwood has taken the title as being known as the first American-borned dentist. This was a very big step for the US because they just gained their independence in 1776. Having the first of many is important for the US to do. It's interesting to see the US claim their very first dentist on their journey after independence. See more -
First National Society of Dentists
The United States goes through 3 great events in the 19th Century that push them to become the leaders in dental developments. One of the 3 events includes the creation of the first national society of dentists, the American Society of Dental Surgeons. This quickly led to multiple advances in the field. This is interesting because it was the stepping stone to other societies like ADA, which are extremely helpful for dentists.
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First African American Woman Dentist
In 1890, Ida Gray Nelson Rollins graduated from the Dental College of the University of Michigan, she became the first African American woman dentist. She wanted to become a dentist based on her prior dental office part-time job. I think representation matters and it was important to me to learn how the first black woman dentist happened. As a black woman, I am inspired and so glad she paved the way. See More -
X-Rays Finally Used By Dentists
X-ray technology was finally introduced into the field of dentistry by an American Dentist, Charles Edmund Kells. Since Kells introduction in 1896, he started a period of time that led to more accurate dental conditions. Without x-rays, dentists would only be able to determine causes based on gross anatomy. X-rays can show so many dental conditions that would be missed if dentist were just looking at the surface. See More
