March 8 marks International Women’s Day – a time to celebrate the countless ways women have made lasting impacts in various professional fields, one of which is oral healthcare. While there have certainly been many changes over the decades, the one thing that has yet to stop is the growing interest of females practicing dentistry. In preparation for this annual holiday, here are 4 reasons to celebrate the diversity that is now found in dental offices throughout the country.
Reason #1: Women Began Practicing Dentistry in the U.S. in 1855
As the first woman to hold the title of licensed dentist in the United States, Dr. Emeline Roberts Jones set the stage for what would become an increasingly popular profession among females.
Although the field remains male-dominated in many ways, the American Dental Association (ADA) reported in 2023 that 37.7% of practicing dentists in the U.S. were women. While there is still much work to be done, it’s clear that as the years pass, more females will continue to enter the oral healthcare field ready to make a difference.
Reason #2: Women Began Earning Dental Degrees in 1866
Lucy Hobbs Taylor was the first woman to earn a dental degree in the U.S. in 1866. Attending the Ohio School of Dental Surgery, she completed her studies secretly and received hands-on experience with the help of her mentor, the dean.
Since that time, this has opened the doors to countless women who desire to pursue a career in dentistry. The ADA’s Health Policy Institute states that the percentage of female dental school graduates increased from 46 to 50.6% from 2009 to 2020.
Reason #3: Pediatric Dentistry was Formed with the Help of Dr. Minnie Evangeline Jordon
After graduating from the University of California in 1898, Dr. Jordon founded the American Society of Dentistry for Children and opened the first practice devoted solely to children or pediatric patients. She also became known as one of the first dentists to encourage good oral hygiene habits among children and the need for pediatric dental education.
The ADA reports that as of 2022, nearly 9,000 pediatric dentists were practicing in the U.S. More than 75% are women. Although no distinct reason is provided as to why more women are specializing in pediatric dentistry, it’s clear that the connection to children remains strong as more and more females open private practices and continue to take the lead at various offices throughout the country.
Reason #4: Aspiring Dental Hygienists Have Irene Newman to Thank
As the first female licensed dental hygienist in the U.S., she completed her education in 1917 and trained under her cousin, Dr. Alfred Fones, who was a dentist. Her work and desire for the field led to her assisting in the development of various dental hygiene programs in other states.
According to research compiled by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Census, and available job openings, it’s estimated that around 93% of dental hygienists are women.
These are just a few of the amazing women who have made their mark in the field of dentistry. The way their work has positively impacted the lives of other females is certainly worth celebrating.
About the McCarl Dental Group at Shipley’s Choice
Our team at McCarl Dental Group at Shipley’s Choice is pleased to have Dr. Michelle Ayoroa Perez as part of our team, delivering healthy, beautiful smiles to patients of all ages. As a family-friendly practice that has been serving the community since 1938, we strive to make our office a welcoming and diverse environment for dentists and those who desire to work in the field. To learn more about us, call our office or visit our website.