“Why mouthless medical schools?” That was the question posed back in 1977. It highlighted the unique founding of Harvard School of Dental Medicine. Before 1867 dentistry lacked true academic status. It was often seen as a trade not a branch of medicine.
Here at Harvard School of Dental Medicine all students experience dual citizenship. They are part of both the dental school and Harvard Medical School. This reflects the program’s belief that dentistry is a specialty of medicine.
Harvard School of Dental Medicine holds a unique place in dental history. It was the first university-based dental school in the United States. Founded on July 17 1867 it marked a turning point for dental education. Before Harvard dental schools were freestanding institutions. They weren’t connected to major universities.
The establishment of Harvard Dental School signaled a shift. It elevated dentistry to a science-based profession. The school’s formation addressed a critical gap. Oral health had been a scientific “no-man’s land” for too long.
Harvard was also the first dental school to award the DMD degree. The Doctor of Dental Medicine degree. Interestingly there’s no practical difference between a DMD and a DDS. Both degrees require meeting the same certification standards.
In 1940 Harvard Dental School became Harvard School of Dental Medicine. This change emphasized the biological basis of oral medicine. It reflected the school’s growing multidisciplinary approach to dental research.
Harvard School of Dental Medicine has a long history of innovation in dental education. In 1957 the school received a grant to expand its postdoctoral training. These programs combined clinical training with research in various fields. This included health policy public health and biomedical sciences.
The Harvard Odontological Society was established in 1878. It fosters education and fellowship among Harvard School of Dental Medicine graduates and faculty. This society has been running for over 130 years.
The Harvard Dental Alumni Association boasts over 2500 members. These alumni actively participate in the school’s events. They contribute to the school’s vision for the future.
Here at Harvard School of Dental Medicine you will find several programs. These include Doctor of Dental Medicine Orthodontics Endodontics Prosthodontics Periodontics and Dental Public Health.
Several major changes occurred in 1994. The predoctoral class size increased to 35. A problem-based curriculum was introduced. The program shifted from five years to a four-year case-based approach.
Many prominent figures have graduated from Harvard School of Dental Medicine. These include Varaztad Kazanjian a pioneer in plastic surgery. Also Robert Tanner Freeman the first African-American graduate.
Today Harvard School of Dental Medicine continues its legacy. It is a leader in dental education research and patient care. The school is located in Boston’s Longwood Medical Area. Though the smallest school at Harvard University with only 280 students it has over 300 faculty members. It remains committed to excellence and innovation.