Irene Newman: The Trailblazer Who Shaped Dental Hygiene From Assistant to Pioneer – The Evolution of a Profession

In celebration of National Dental Hygienist Week, we’re highlighting the history of dental hygiene and the woman who started it all. Irene Newman, the world’s first licensed dental hygienist, paved the way for preventive oral care and helped shape the profession as we know it today.

Irene Newman: The First Dental Hygienist 

Pioneer in Dental Hygiene: Irene Newman became the world’s first licensed dental hygienist in 1917 in Connecticut, under the guidance of her cousin, Dr. Alfred Fones, a dentist who emphasized preventive oral care. 

Trained by Dr. Fones: Newman was originally Dr. Fones’ dental assistant and received training to clean teeth and provide preventive dental care, leading to the concept of “dental hygienist.” 

Licensure and Role Expansion: Connecticut became the first state to allow licensure of dental hygienists in 1917, formally recognizing the profession. Newman’s work laid the foundation for the future of dental hygiene as a preventive healthcare field. 

Evolution of Dental Hygiene Profession 

1920s-1930s 

• Growth of Education: The first formal dental hygiene program was established in 1913 at the Fones School of Dental Hygiene in Bridgeport, Connecticut. 

• Expansion to Other States: By the 1920s, other states began licensing dental hygienists, expanding the profession across the United States. 

1940s-1950s 

• Increased Scope of Practice: Dental hygienists began providing more preventive services such as fluoride application and expanded patient education. 

• Professional Associations: The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA), founded in 1923, advocated for the growth and advancement of the profession. 

1960s-1970s 

• Clinical Advancements: Introduction of ultrasonic scaling devices and more advanced techniques for plaque and calculus removal. 

• Dental Hygiene Programs Nationwide: By the 1960s, dental hygiene programs were established across the country, including associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs. 

1980s-1990s 

• Broader Recognition: Dental hygienists gained more autonomy and responsibility, with some states allowing independent practice in certain settings. 

• Public Health Initiatives: Dental hygienists became increasingly involved in public health programs aimed at improving oral health in underserved communities. 

2000s-Present 

• Expansion of Roles: Many states have allowed dental hygienists to administer local anesthesia, place temporary restorations, and provide preventive care in diverse settings, including schools and nursing homes. 

• Direct Access and Tele-dentistry: More states now allow direct access to dental hygienists, meaning they can provide services without direct supervision in certain circumstances, increasing access to care. 

• Advanced Degrees and Specialization: Dental hygienists can now pursue advanced degrees and specialized roles, including research, education, public health, and administration. 

Key Modern Facts About Dental Hygienists 

• Growing Profession: As of today, there are over 200,000 licensed dental hygienists in the United States. 

• Higher Education Opportunities: Dental hygienists can pursue associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, and many pursue careers in education, research, or public health. 

• Increased Access to Care: Expanded practice settings and direct access models have improved oral health care in underserved communities. 

• Continued Professional Advocacy: The ADHA continues to advocate for expanding the scope of practice and increasing access to preventive dental care.