Women's History: Gillette Hayden
Gillette Hayden was a pioneering figure in the field of dentistry, particularly known for her contributions to periodontics. Born on March 2, 1880, in Greenville, Florida, Hayden's early life was marked by a move to Columbus, Ohio, where she would later achieve significant academic success. She graduated as valedictorian from East High School in Columbus and went on to further her education at the Ohio Medical University, which is now known as the Ohio State University College of Dentistry. In 1902, she graduated from this institution, becoming the third woman to do so and marking the beginning of her illustrious career in dentistry.
Hayden's lineage also played a significant role in her career path; she was the great-granddaughter of Horace Hayden, a co-founder of the first dental college in Baltimore. This heritage no doubt influenced her decision to pursue dentistry [2]. Her professional life was distinguished by her focus on periodontics, a specialty of dentistry that deals with the structures supporting the teeth. In 1914, alongside Dr. Grace R. Spaulding, Hayden founded the American Academy of Periodontology, an organization dedicated to the advancement of periodontal care.
Gillette Hayden's legacy extends beyond her contributions to dental science; she is remembered for breaking barriers for women in the field of dentistry and for her commitment to improving dental care practices. Her work has left a lasting impact on the profession, exemplifying how dedication and innovation can lead to significant advancements in healthcare.
Sources:
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/odi.14460
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gillette_Hayden https://library.osu.edu/site/mhcb/2014/05/06/gillette-hayden/