Famous Dental Hygienists
Dental hygienists play a critical role in dentistry, influencing the preventative standard of care provided to patients. The foundations of preventative care that we use in our daily practices have been built by several famous dental hygienists who deserve recognition.
In this article, we shine a spotlight on the famous dental hygienists who have not only excelled in their clinical practice but have also made significant contributions to the advancement of the dental hygiene profession.
Table of Contents
Impactful Dental Hygienists
In the vast realm of healthcare, certain professions often take center stage, while others quietly work behind the scenes, their contributions going unnoticed by many. Among these unsung heroes are dental hygienists, dedicated professionals who play a pivotal role in maintaining oral health and preventing dental issues.
While their impact may not always make headlines, these famous dental hygienists have risen to prominence within the field, leaving an indelible mark on dental hygiene education, research, and advocacy.
5 Famous Dental Hygienists
The most recent research in dentistry proclaims that preventative measures are incredibly important in maintaining oral health and total body health. Dental hygienists play a key role in providing preventative care to their patients. The famous dental hygienists below have provided the foundations of this profession increasing access to dental health services.
Dr Esther M. Wilkins, RDH, DMD
Dr Esther M. Wilkins, the godmother of dental hygiene, is widely recognized as the highest influential figure in the field of dental hygiene. She is renowned for her contributions to dental hygiene education and her significant impact on the profession.
Key points about Esther Wilkins:
- Education and Career: Esther Wilkins was born in 1916 and began her career in dental hygiene. Later, she pursued dentistry, earning her DMD degree. Her extensive educational background and experience in both dental hygiene and dentistry contributed to her comprehensive understanding of oral health.
- Authorship: Esther Wilkins is perhaps best known for her influential textbook, “Clinical Practice of the Dental Hygienist.” First published in 1959, this book has become a seminal work in dental hygiene education. It has been widely used as a reference in dental hygiene programs and is considered a foundational resource for students and practitioners.
- Educator: Esther Wilkins held teaching positions at various institutions, including the Forsyth School for Dental Hygienists and the Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine. Her dedication to education and her impact on dental hygiene curriculum development have left a lasting legacy in the field.
- Awards and Recognition: Esther Wilkins received numerous awards and honors throughout her career, acknowledging her outstanding contributions to dental hygiene. These include the Esther Wilkins Education Program Award, named in her honor by the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA).
Irene Newman, RDH
Irene Newman is recognized as a pioneering figure in the field of dental hygiene, playing a significant role in the establishment and development of dental hygiene as a profession. Irene Newman is often credited as the first licensed dental hygienist in the United States.
Her notable collaboration with Dr. Alfred Fones, a dentist, in the early 20th century, was instrumental in shaping the dental hygiene profession. In 1913, under the guidance of Dr. Fones, Irene Newman began her work as a dental hygienist in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Together, they implemented a program that focused on preventive oral care and patient education.
The key contributions of Irene Newman include her efforts to emphasize the importance of oral hygiene and regular dental care for the prevention of dental issues. This pioneering work laid the foundation for the formalization of dental hygiene education programs and the recognition of dental hygienists as integral members of the dental healthcare team.
Susan Cotten, BSDH, RDH, OMT
Susan Cotten is another important figure in our top famous dental hygienists. Recognized for her work in dental hygiene education and as a past president of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA). Susan Cotten is recognized for her work in dental hygiene education, leadership roles within professional organizations, and advocacy for oral health.
Susan Cotten created the Cotten Method, a dental oral cancer office system and screening method. She is also the is the CEO of Oral Cancer Consulting. Susan works with dental professionals to increase their confidence in screening, reduce the risk of liability, and increase early detection.
Juliette A. Southard, RDH
Another one of our top picks for famous dental hygienists is Juliette A. Southard. She was the first dental hygienist to be president of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA). She served as the president of the ADHA from 1926 to 1928.
Juliette A. Southard was a significant figure in the early development of dental hygiene as a profession, and her leadership role in the ADHA reflects her dedication to advancing the field and promoting the interests of dental hygienists.
- Advocacy for Dental Hygiene Education: Southard was an advocate for dental hygiene education and professional standards. During her time as ADHA president, efforts were made to establish standardized educational requirements for dental hygienists.
- Early Years of Dental Hygiene: Juliette A. Southard was active in the formative years of the dental hygiene profession, a period when the role of dental hygienists was being defined and recognized. Her leadership played a crucial role in shaping the professional identity of dental hygienists.
- Educational Initiatives: Southard was involved in promoting the importance of education for dental hygienists, emphasizing the need for formal training and qualifications. This advocacy contributed to the establishment of educational standards that have become integral to the dental hygiene profession.
Anna Pattison, RDH, MS
Anna Pattison is a Former Associate Professor, and a Former Chair of the Department of Dental Hygiene at the Ostrow School of Dentistry, University of Southern California. Anna Pattison received her B.S. in Dental Hygiene from the University of Southern California School of Dentistry in 1967, and her M.S. degree in Dental Hygiene Education and Administration from Columbia University in 1968.
As one of our picks for famous dental hygienists, Anna Pattison is known as a pivotal educator for future dental hygienists. Mrs. Pattison is the co-author of the textbook, Periodontal Instrumentation, with her husband, Dr. Gordon Pattison. Several texts that Mrs. Pattison contributed in have been used in dental and dental hygiene schools throughout the world. Anna Pattison is one of the world’s leading experts in the field of periodontal instrumentation.
In 2005, she received the Pfizer-ADHA Excellence in Dental Hygiene Award and the USC School of Dentistry Alumnus of the Year Award. In 2006 she received the California Society of Periodontists Award. In 2010 she was inducted into the USC School of Dentistry Hall of Fame.
The Influence of Famous Dental Hygienists
From pioneers who helped establish dental hygiene as a recognized discipline to modern-day educators and advocates, these famous dental hygienists embody the commitment, passion, and expertise that characterize the world of dental hygiene. Their hard work has uncovered the crucial role they have played in shaping the landscape of oral healthcare.
Dental hygienists actively contribute to promoting preventive oral care, educating patients on maintaining good oral hygiene practices, and supporting dentists in overall dental health initiatives.
To learn more about the dental hygiene career, check out our many articles here.
Take Home Smile Store
Visit our Take Home Smile Store for educational products and printables to help with oral hygiene in patients and improve your daily workflow. Certain products even come with a customizable feature to support your dental office.
