When we think of dentistry, the image of our local dental clinic might spring to mind — far removed from the wild tales of history, the adrenaline of sports, or the glamour of Hollywood.
Yet, the world of dentistry intersects with some of the most unexpected and fascinating characters in history. This article isn't just about teeth; it's a journey through time and across professions, shedding light on individuals for whom dentistry was a part of their varied and vibrant lives.
From revolutionary war heroes and Wild West gunslingers to Heisman Trophy winners and NBA All-Stars, from celebrated actors and authors to ingenious inventors responsible for items as diverse as urinal target stickers and grape jelly — this is a dive into the unexpected lives of history's most famous dentists. Prepare to be surprised, entertained, and informed as we uncover the hidden dental connections of some of history's most intriguing personalities.
Famous Dental Practitioners
Paul Revere (no introduction necessary)
Background: Paul Revere is widely recognized for his heroic midnight ride during the American Revolution, but fewer people know of his work as a dentist.
Dentistry: Revere learned the art of dentistry from a practicing surgeon and applied his skills in crafting dentures and conducting dental work.
Doc Holliday (no introduction necessary)
Background: Known as a gunslinger and gambler of the Wild West, Doc Holliday's life is often romanticized in folklore and film.
Profession: Before his notorious outlaw days, Holliday was a trained dentist, earning a degree in dentistry from the Pennsylvania College of Dental Surgery. His career shift from dentistry to gambling and gunfighting actually occurred as a result of health issues related to contracting tuberculosis, and marks a dramatic turn in the life of this complex historical figure.
Thomas Welch (yes, the Welch’s Grape Juice Guy)
Background: Thomas Welch, a dentist by training, is less known for his medical practice and more for his innovation that led to the creation of Welch's grape juice.
Innovation: As a staunch supporter of the temperance movement, Welch developed a method of pasteurizing grape juice to prevent fermentation, providing a non-alcoholic alternative to wine for church sacraments. His invention laid the foundation for the Welch's company, known today for its variety of grape-based products.
These individuals demonstrate the unexpected paths that dental professionals can take, contributing to broader historical narratives and commercial industries. Their stories highlight the multifaceted nature of dentists who not only contributed to oral health but also left a lasting impact on history and society.
Dentist Athletes
Les Horvath (Heisman trophy winner)
Dual Achievements: Les Horvath is known for his remarkable football career, including winning the Heisman Trophy, but also pursued and completed his dental degree. Horvath actually retired from professional football in the 1940s in order to focus on his career as a dentist.
Legacy of Versatility: His story serves as a testament to the possibility of balancing intense athletic commitment with rigorous academic pursuits, illustrating the diverse interests and capabilities of athletes.
Terry Dischinger (NBA All-Star, Gold medalist, & orthodontist)
Olympian and NBA Star: Terry Dischinger, a respected figure in basketball with an Olympic gold medal and a multiple-time NBA All-Star, also chose to engage deeply in the world of dentistry.
A Career Beyond the Court: After his basketball days, he dedicated himself to his orthodontic practice, successfully merging his passion for sports and his commitment to healthcare. As if that’s not impressive enough, he also took a 2 year break from his NBA career to serve in the U.S. Army.
Both Les Horvath and Terry Dischinger exemplify the multifaceted lives that some athletes lead. Their stories underline the fact that the pursuit of professional sports and a rigorous academic field like dentistry is not only possible but can also lead to fulfilling careers post-athletics. These athletes serve as inspiring examples of how one can excel in the competitive world of sports while also making significant contributions to another demanding professional field.
Innovators in Dentistry
Horace Wells (the Father of Medical Anesthesia)
Background: Horace Wells was an American dentist who pioneered the use of nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, for dental anesthesia.
Impact: His innovative approach revolutionized dental procedures by significantly reducing the pain associated with surgeries, thereby laying the groundwork for modern anesthetic techniques.
George Franklin Grant (First Black Harvard professor)
Background: George Franklin Grant was not only the first African American faculty member at Harvard but also an inventive mind in the dental field.
Inventions: Beyond his academic achievements, Grant was known for inventing the wooden golf tee and making various contributions to dental medicine, particularly in treating cleft palates.
Painless Parker (the guy who started an actual “Dental Circus”)
Background: Edgar Randolph Parker, who legally changed his name to "Painless Parker," was a flamboyant street dentist who turned dental care into a spectacle to attract patients.
Approach: Despite his controversial methods, he was effective in drawing public attention to dentistry and making dental care more approachable through entertainment and showmanship.
Leonard Linkow (Nobel Prize nominee)
Background: Leonard Linkow was a pioneering figure in the field of dental implants. When he placed his first implant in 1952, the procedure was almost unheard of. He also served in World War II, was nominated for a Nobel Prize, held dozens of patents, and had a brief professional baseball career.
Contributions: He is credited with placing more than 100,000 implants and significantly advancing implantology techniques, making dental restorations more accessible and effective for patients worldwide.
Pierre Fauchard (the “Father of Modern Dentistry”)
Background: Known as the "Father of Modern Dentistry," Pierre Fauchard was a French physician whose methods transformed dentistry from a trade into a professional practice.
Works: His book, "Le Chirurgien Dentiste," detailed comprehensive systems for oral care and treatment, introducing innovations that are foundational to modern dentistry.
Greene Vardiman Black (the “Father of Operative Dentistry”)
Background: Often referred to as the “Father of Operative Dentistry” or even the "Grand Old Man of Dentistry," Greene Vardiman (G.V.) Black made significant contributions to dental practices and education.
Legacy: He developed many of the principles of cavity preparation and restoration, standardized operative procedures, and improved dental materials. Even today, dental students begin the study of restorative dentistry with a study of G.V. Black’s techniques.
Lucy Hobbs Taylor (first female dentist, 1866!)
Background: As the first woman to earn a dental degree in the United States, Lucy Hobbs Taylor broke through significant gender barriers in the profession.
Advocacy: Beyond her dental practice, she was a vocal advocate for women's rights and worked tirelessly to ensure other women could follow in her footsteps in the dental field.
Each of these individuals brought unique perspectives and innovations to dentistry, shaping the field into what it is today. Their contributions span from clinical techniques and tools to broader societal impacts, reflecting the diverse ways in which dedicated professionals can influence health and science.
Inventors, Actors, & Interesting People
Zane Grey (Minor leaguer turned dentist turned novelist)
Before Fame: Before becoming a renowned author of adventure and Western novels, Zane Grey was a minor league baseball player and then a practicing dentist, a career that funded his initial writing ventures.
Literary Success: Eventually, Grey's passion for writing and the American West overtook his dental career, leading to a legacy filled with beloved classic Western stories.
Alfred Southwick (inventor of the electric chair)
Inventive Dentist: Alfred Southwick was a dentist turned inventor who is notably credited with inventing the electric chair as a method of execution. His medical background influenced his approach to what he considered a more humane method of capital punishment.
Electrical Execution: Southwick's invention was a result of his observations and studies into electrical currents, showcasing a unique intersection of medical knowledge and engineering.
John Riley (introduced LSD to The Beatles)
Psychedelic Introduction: John Riley, a dentist by profession, is known for his influence on pop culture by reportedly introducing LSD to The Beatles, affecting the band's music and the wider cultural scene of the 1960s.
Cultural Impact: His connection to the band highlights an unexpected link between the fields of dentistry and the explosive counter-cultural movements of the time.
Joel Kreiss (urinal target sticker inventor)
Inventive Aim: Joel Kreiss, a dentist, is credited with inventing the urinal target sticker, a small but impactful invention aimed at improving cleanliness in men's restrooms.
Hygienic Innovation: His contribution is a quirky yet practical application of aiming for better hygiene, improved potty training of children, and public restroom etiquette.
William Morrison (created the 1st cotton candy machine)
Sweet Invention: William Morrison, a dentist by trade, surprised many by inventing the cotton candy machine, initially called "Fairy Floss."
Confectionery Delight: Despite the dental profession's focus on oral health, Morrison's invention has become a beloved treat at fairs and amusement parks worldwide, showing a dentist's unlikely hand in creating a universally enjoyed sugary snack.
Edgar Buchanan (accomplished actor)
Dental to Drama: Edgar Buchanan transitioned from a successful career as a dentist to becoming a well-known actor in Hollywood, starring in numerous films and television shows. His wife Mildred was also a trailblazer, graduating dental school in 1928 when female dentists were quite uncommon.
Acting Acclaim: Buchanan's second career in the entertainment industry demonstrates the diverse paths individuals can take, moving from the precision of dentistry to the creative world of acting. His story is a testament to the varied interests and talents that dental professionals may pursue beyond the clinic.
These individuals represent a fascinating array of dentists who expanded the traditional boundaries of their profession, venturing into inventions, cultural movements, and other fields while leaving a lasting impact on society. Their stories showcase the unexpected ways dental professionals have influenced various aspects of life and culture.
Celebrities with Dental Ties
Sofia Vergara & Mark Spitz
Dental School Dropout: Sofia Vergara, known for her acting career, notably attended dental school for two years before dropping out to pursue modeling and acting. Similarly, Mark Spitz, an Olympic swimming legend, was accepted into dental school before his athletic career took precedence.
From Molars to Stardom: Both individuals demonstrate the diverse paths to fame and success, starting from an interest in dentistry to becoming prominent figures in their respective fields.
Miles Davis
Jazz Icon with Dental Roots: Miles Davis, one of the most influential jazz musicians of the 20th century, had a close connection to dentistry through his father, Dr. Miles Dewey Davis Jr., who was a successful dentist.
Influence and Inspiration: While Miles Davis pursued a career in music, the discipline and success of his father in the dental field may have influenced his own dedication and groundbreaking work in the world of jazz.
Michael Dell
Tech Giant with Orthodontic Connection: Michael Dell, the founder of Dell Technologies, grew up with a father who was an orthodontist. This family background in a meticulous and patient-focused profession might have influenced Dell's approach to detail and customer care in his tech ventures.
Legacy of Precision: The precision and care in orthodontics may have indirectly contributed to Michael Dell's business acumen and the success of Dell Technologies, showcasing the impact of family profession on personal career trajectories.
These celebrities and notable figures highlight the sometimes unexpected connections between the world of dentistry and various paths of fame and influence. Whether directly involved in dental studies or influenced by family members in the field, these individuals reflect the broad impact that the discipline of dentistry can have beyond the clinic or office. Their stories add a layer of relatable intrigue to the broader narrative of dental history and cultural impact.
