Operatory of the Future
32 Terrific Teeth
MouthPower
George Washington Gallery
Marvelous Mouth
NEW ON VIEW
The Operatory of the Future
This new exhibit showcases some of the most technologically advanced treatment systems available for dental offices—from digital X-rays that expose patients to less radiation to foot-operated computers—that improve the quality of procedures, reduce patients’ time in the office, and improve oral health. The Operatory of the Future is made possible through the support Benco Dental.
American College of Dentists’ Mace and Torch
The mace and torch of the oldest national honorary organization for dentists is on display on long-term loan. Assembled to preserve the historic symbols of the founding of the College, the exhibit features the gold-plated mace and torch that have been used in membership ceremonies for nearly 70 years.
ON VIEW
32 Terrific Teeth
This permanent exhibition spans two floors, beginning with teeth in popular culture (including film shorts from the Little Rascals and vintage dental commercials starring Bill Cosby and Farrah Fawcett), followed by exhibitions that reveal the anatomy and physiology of human and animal teeth. Discover an extraordinary collection of toothbrushes and tooth pastes and the evolution of dental history, from the ancient Mayans and dental care in the 19th century to the latest technology being used today. Highlights include the personal dental instruments of Queen Victoria and an 18th-century inspired gallery featuring George Washington’s lower dentures.
MouthPower
Elementary school age children can role play a visit to the dentist in this interactive learning laboratory featuring a kid-size dental chair, white lab coats, and mock X-rays - plus hands-on models that teach the parts of a tooth, how to brush and floss properly, why to say no to tobacco, and the importance of healthy eating.
George Washington Gallery
Contrary to popular belief, the nation’s first president never wore wooden teeth. Decorated like an 18th-century presidential parlor, the gallery features Washington’s ivory lower denture, as well as displays about his favorite dentist and portraits that reveal the impact of his tooth troubles.
G.V. Black: Father of American Dentistry
Meet G.V. Black, the father of American dentistry, in a vignette of Black’s circa 1870 dental office - featuring his Archer dental chair, a foot-powered dental engine that he invented, and hand instruments designed by Black to place silver amalgam fillings. A touchscreen computer kiosk allows visitors to flip through a “photo album” of Black’s life to learn more about his home and family, scientific breakthroughs, and the legacy of his work.
The Marvelous Mouth
Discover the wide world of braces, brushing, and beautiful teeth in a new hands-on exhibition that explores how to take care of braces, how mouth guards protect teeth during sports, why tobacco use can lead to tooth trouble, and what careers are possible in the world of dentistry. Hands-on models and a humorous interactive computer game reveal tooth truths that will keep kids smiling for a lifetime.
The Narwhal: A Whale of a Tooth
Explore the science and mythology of this Arctic whale that has mystified scientists for decades. The exhibition includes a 13-foot, life-size model of a male narwhal with its more than 5-foot-long tusk, documentary photographs, interviews, and educational facts bring this curious creature to life.
The Smile Experience
This dazzling multimedia presentation reveals the amazing power of a smile. Take a snapshot of your own smile and upload it to the monitor in the gallery, then take a historical look at how people have enhanced their smiles throughout history. Discover the impact that modern cosmetic dentistry has today on creating healthy smiles that give people confidence and change lives.
Your Spitting Image
Step into the role of a forensic investigator to solve mysteries, see what’s in that remarkable fluid called saliva, and find out how scientists are using bioengineering to grow teeth. This innovative and interactive three-part exhibition highlights the convergence of genetics and dentistry with hands-on experiments and interactive computer activities. Visit the online exhibit and classroom resource here.
Celebrating Dental Education
Explore the history, important achievements, and unique programs of participating dental schools throughout North America on site and online.
