MS 1889, University of Longon
DDS 1892, University of Michigan
MD 1895, Northwestern University Women's Medical School

Latham was born in England to a physician father that hoped she would follow in his footsteps. Latham moved to the United States to study dentistry at the University of Michigan where her work was so outstanding that she gave instruction in bacteriology and comparative anatomy while she was still a student. She firmly believed dentistry should have the same foundation in anatomy and physiology as medicine, rather than simply focusing on mechanical skills. She went on to earn a medical degree from Northwestern University Women's Medical School.

Latham was highly accomplished in both dentistry and medicine, and combined the two disciplines for the betterment of both. She set up a research laboratory to study microscopy--the use of microscopes to study what cannot be seen with the human eye. She was committed to sharing her knowlege and taught dentists and physicians, as well as published her techniques and information. She also encouraged women to enter dentistry, and opened a practice in Rogers Park, IL, which she maintained until she retired.

Return to the Profiles of Women Dentists page.