Here are just a few of the women who changed the face of dentistry. Click on each name or photo to learn more about these impressive dentists.

Clara Walworth McNaughton (1854-1948)

DDS 1885, University of Michigan
"We like the profession and believe the time is not far distant when women will cease to be regarded by the masses as out of her sphere in the practice of dentistry."

Vida Annette Latham (1866-1958)

MS 1889, University of Longon
DDS 1892, University of Michigan
MD 1895, Northwestern University Women's Medical School
"Any woman of average will-power, a steady purpose, conscientiousness, who will pay attention to small details, is careful and painstaking... can if she wishes make a comfortable living [in dentistry] and be of benefit to many persons [and] perhaps [aid] in some scientific discoveries, if she will perservere."

Leonie von Zesch (1882-1944)

DDS 1902, College of Physicians and Surgeons, San Fransisco
"I gave the profession youth, health, energy, enthusiasm, adequate training, a lifelong devotion, and an unquenchable zest for living. The profession has given me an abundant livelihood, the opportunity to help others, and outlet for my unlimited energy, adventure, travel, association with interesting people, and often a sustenance that was not only material, but also spiritual."

Jeanne C. Sinkford (1933-)

DDS 1958, Howard University
MS 1962, and PhD Physiology 1964, Northwestern University
"It takes a lot for a woman to be in a top position, particularly in a male profession. You have to be better to be accepted as equal. Once your collegues accept you as a competent person, they don't mind your being there. But men are resentful at first because they feel a woman has been selected for a position they might have taken."

Return to the main Women Dentists exhibit page.