7+ Who Was the First Dental Hygienist? History & Facts


7+ Who Was the First Dental Hygienist? History & Facts

Irine Newman is widely recognized as the first dental hygienist. Trained by Dr. F. Alfred C. Fones in Bridgeport, Connecticut, in the early 1900s, she began practicing prophylactic dental care, marking the genesis of the profession.

The establishment of dental hygiene as a distinct profession revolutionized oral healthcare. Initially focused on preventative care and patient education, particularly for children, it paved the way for improved oral health outcomes and a greater emphasis on overall well-being. This pioneering work laid the foundation for modern dental hygiene practice, which has evolved to encompass a broader scope of therapeutic and preventative services integral to comprehensive oral healthcare.

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