National Museum of Dentistry facts for kids
National Museum of Dentistry in Baltimore, Maryland
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| Established | 1996 |
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| Location | Baltimore, Maryland |
The Dr. Samuel D. Harris National Museum of Dentistry is a super cool place in Baltimore, Maryland. It opened in 1996 and shows off the amazing history of dentistry from all over the world. Imagine learning about teeth and smiles through the ages!
This museum is on the campus of the University of Maryland, Baltimore. This university is special because it's home to The Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, which was the very first dental school in the United States!
Inside the museum, you can see lots of old tools and items related to teeth. You'll learn about how people took care of their teeth long ago. Some of the most famous things there include George Washington's dentures, dental tools that belonged to Queen Victoria, and even the world's only tooth jukebox!
In 2003, the U.S. Congress officially named this museum the nation's dental museum. It's also connected with the famous Smithsonian Institution, which means it's a really important museum!
Exploring Dental History
The museum is packed with interesting things that tell the story of dentistry. You can see how dental care has changed over hundreds of years. It's not just about brushing your teeth; it's about how people learned to fix them and keep them healthy.
Famous Dental Items
One of the most talked-about exhibits is George Washington's dentures. Did you know they weren't made of wood? You can see what they were really like! Another cool display features dental instruments that belonged to Queen Victoria, a famous queen from England. These items show how dentistry was practiced even for royalty.
The Tooth Jukebox
Imagine a jukebox that plays music, but instead of records, it uses teeth! The museum has the world's only tooth jukebox. It's a unique and fun way to see how creative people can be, even with something as unusual as teeth.
Learning About Oral Health
Besides history, the museum also teaches you about keeping your mouth healthy today. You can learn about different jobs in dentistry, like dentists, hygienists, and dental assistants. It helps you understand why taking care of your teeth is so important for your overall health.
