February 18, 1827

University of Maryland, the first dental school in the world, was incorporated.

Baltimore, United States | University of Maryland

Watercolor painting based depiction of University of Maryland, the first dental school in the world, was incorporated. (1827)

University of Maryland Dental School Incorporation

On February 18, 1827, the University of Maryland, Baltimore, established the world’s first dental school, initially known as the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery. This institution marked a significant milestone in medical education by formalizing dental training and elevating it to a professional academic discipline.

Historical Context

During the early 19th century, dentistry in the United States was largely an unregulated trade, often practiced by individuals without formal education or standardized training. The incorporation of a dental college was a revolutionary step towards legitimizing the profession, providing structured education, and addressing the critical need for qualified dental practitioners.

Key Figures

  • Horace H. Hayden: A prominent dentist who was instrumental in promoting the idea of a dental college. He played a crucial role in the founding of the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery.
  • Chapin A. Harris: Alongside Hayden, Harris co-founded the dental school and contributed significantly to its curriculum development and overall mission. He also published seminal works in dentistry, which laid the groundwork for future educational standards in the field.

Educational Innovations

The curriculum designed at the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery introduced a comprehensive approach to dental education, blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills. This balanced combination aimed to enhance the quality of dental care and set a precedent for subsequent institutions.

Impact and Aftermath

  • The establishment of the dental school is considered pivotal in the history of dentistry, influencing the establishment of other dental programs both nationally and internationally.
  • It paved the way for the creation of the American Society of Dental Surgeons in 1840, the first professional dental organization in the United States.
  • The University of Maryland Dental School continues to uphold its legacy, contributing to advancements in dental research and education.

The incorporation of the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery not only marked the formalization of dental education but also helped shape the standards and practices of modern dentistry worldwide.

Source: en.wikipedia.org

Explore related moments in history

Events connected by shared themes, locations, or historical context.

1831 · Tuscaloosa, United States

The University of Alabama was founded, becoming the state's first public college and one of the oldest public universities in the United States.

Founding of University College London (UCL)

1826 · London, United Kingdom

University College London is founded under the name 'University of London' as a secular alternative to the religious universities of Oxford and Cambridge.

Birth of Louis Braille

1809 · Coupvray, France

Louis Braille, the inventor of a widely used tactile writing system for the visually impaired, was born. His work would later revolutionize reading and writing for the blind community worldwide.

Publication of Roget's Thesaurus

1852 · London, United Kingdom

The first edition of Peter Mark Roget's 'Thesaurus of English Words and Phrases' was published, which has since become a staple reference for English language synonyms and antonyms.