Black History Month; First African-American Dentist, Dr. Robert Tanner Freeman DDS
February is Black History Month; so today we have chosen to highlight and honor the United States’ first professionally trained African American dentist, Dr. Robert Tanner Freeman, DDS. Born in 1846 in Washington DC, to parents who had been slaves, Freeman worked as apprentice for a white dentist who encouraged him to apply to dental college and get his certification. After being rejected by two other schools, Freeman was accepted into Harvard Medical School at the age of 21.
Upon graduation, he set up his private practice in Washington DC, and began mentoring other African American youths interested in medical practice until his death.
Honored by the all-black National Dental Association in1913, previous called the Robert T. Freeman Dental Society in 1907, the NDA adopted Dr. Freeman’s mission to extend dental treatment and education to the poor, disabled, elderly, and those racially discriminated against.
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month.
This Year’s NCDHM Campaign Slogan, “Sugar Wars.”
February is almost here, and you know what that means! Yes! National Children’s Dental Health Month! Celebrating it’s 75th year, this year’s slogan is “Sugar Wars.” Each month, the American Dental Association brings together dental professionals and teachers to promote good oral health to children.
Join the Smileys, McGrinns and K9 in their spaceship, the USS SweetSwatter! It is equipped with toothbrush swatters, fighting against the SweetTooth Invaders.
Free Activity Sheets, Coloring Pages, and Posters are Available for Download on the ADA website here:
http://www.ada.org/en/public-programs/national-childrens-dental-health-month.
5 things to do for dental health
With busy, hectic lives, our oral health sometimes falls by the wayside. Here are 5 easy things you can to do to keep your mouth healthy:
- Brush your teeth for two minutes, two times a day.
- Drink water. Not only does it hydrate you, it cleans bacteria from your teeth.
- Avoid sugary foods. Energy drinks, soda and sticky candy do damage to the surface of your teeth and increase the risk of cavities.
- Stop smoking. Smoking creates an ideal environment for bacteria that can cause gum infection and bone loss.
- Visit your dentist! Remember to come see us twice a year for cleanings and to catch any problems that DO show up, early!
Where Did Toothbrushes Come From?
We all know how important is it to brush our teeth; but did you know that toothbrushes have been around since Ancient Egypt? By fraying the end of twigs, early Egyptians were able to clean their teeth. The first bristled toothbrush was created by the Chinese in the 15thcentury, using the hair from pig’s necks and bone or bamboo handles. From China the design traveled to Europe, where horsehair bristles were preferred for their softer feel; but in some places even feathers were used. The first truly modern toothbrush didn’t appear until around the 1940s. (Toothpaste is even older than the toothbrush! More on this later!)
Happy New Year from Sunshine Dental!
The start of a new year is a time of renewal. What is it you want to accomplish this year for yourself? Maybe you’ll pick up a new hobby, learn a new instrument, or brighten, whiten and straighten your smile. Make a resolution to be good to yourself and take care of your teeth and gums. Schedule your cleaning and start the year off on the right foot. We will see you soon!