Most Famous Dentists

by | Nov 24, 2015 | Uncategorized

Throughout the history of dentistry, there have been several notable figures who were practicing dentists at some point in their lives who had made names for themselves, whether that was in the dental office or outside of it. Here’s a look at some of the world’s most recognizable people who practiced the art of dentistry.
Edgar Buchanan
Edgar BuchananKnown mostly for his acting career, Buchanan is most famous for his role as Uncle Joe Carson in the Petticoat Junction, Green Acres and Beverly Hillbillies television sitcoms of the 1960’s. Before he had ever set foot in front of a camera, Buchanan ran a successful dental practice with his wife Mildred, first in Eugene, Oregon and later in Altadena, California. After appearing in his first film in 1939, he turned the practice over to his wife and pursued acting full-time.
John Henry “Doc” Holliday
Doc HollidayEspecially here in Arizona, this is an easily recognizable name that’s part of our state history. Known for his role in the shootout at the O.K. Corral, Holliday once had a successful dental practice in Atlanta, Georgia before his tuberculosis diagnosis brought him to the Southwest. Holliday did not practice dentistry what was then the territory of Arizona. Instead, he became a professional gambler, which was a reputable career at that time. After the famous shootout, Holliday moved to Colorado, where he died of his disease at the age of 36.
Painless Parker
Painless ParkerA flamboyant showman, Edgar “Painless” Parker was actually known for his acts as a dentist. He was known for pulling 357 teeth in one day. In a very unique gimmick, Parker operated a traveling circus that doubled as a dental clinic called the Parker Dental Circus. His dental chair was on a horse-drawn wagon with a marching band behind him. He legally changed his name to Painless after being accused of false advertising. Although the American Dental Association called him a “menace to the dignity of the profession,” Parker was certainly effective in raising awareness of the importance of oral hygiene.
These famous figures have added to the richness of American history and that of the dental profession. For more fun facts about dentistry, check out dentalbuzz.com.

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