A vintage rotary telephone with a whimsical, cartoon-style speech bubble containing musical notes and playful doodles, symbolizing the quirky spirit of National Ding a Ling Day

National Dentist’s Day is an annual celebration dedicated to honoring dentists and their significant contributions to oral health and overall well-being. This day encourages people to appreciate their dentists and raise awareness about the importance of dental hygiene.

Quick Facts

  • When is it?: March 6th
  • Tagged as: Health, Appreciation, Oral Hygiene
  • What’s the hashtag?: #NationalDentistsDay
  • When was it founded?: Officially recognized in 2013
  • Who founded it?: Tricia Buenvenida, a dental hygienist from Florida

History of National Dentist’s Day

The origins of National Ding-A-Ling Day date back to 1972 when Franky Hyle, inspired by a conversation about fostering friendlier connections, placed an advertisement in Chase’s Calendar of Events. The ad invited people to join the National Ding-A-Ling Club for just $1, encouraging them to call friends and family they hadn’t contacted in a while on December 12th. The idea quickly gained popularity, leading to millions participating each year.

Timeline

  • 1900: The first dental school was established in the United States.
  • 1938: The American Dental Association celebrated its 100th anniversary.
  • 2013: National Dentist’s Day was officially recognized.
  • 2024: Dentists continue to be celebrated for their essential role in healthcare.

Dates by Next Year

YearMonth and DateDay
2025March 6Thursday
2026March 6Friday
2027March 6Saturday
2028March 6Monday
2029March 6Tuesday
2030March 6Wednesday

Observed

National Dentist’s Day is observed by expressing gratitude to dentists, scheduling dental check-ups, sharing appreciation on social media using #NationalDentistsDay, and promoting oral hygiene practices.

Fun Facts About Dentists

  • The world’s first dental college, the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, was established in 1840.
  • In 1866, Lucy Beaman Hobbs became the first licensed female dentist.
  • Your teeth are as unique as your fingerprints!
  • The average person spends about 38.5 days brushing their teeth over a lifetime.

Quiz

  1. What year was National Ding-A-Ling Day founded?
    • Answer: 1972
  2. Who founded this holiday?
    • Answer: Franky Hyle
  3. What is the main activity associated with this day?
    • Answer: Calling friends and family members.
  4. What does the hashtag for this day promote?
    • Answer: Reconnecting with loved ones.
  5. Which famous song is often associated with this holiday?
    • Answer: “My Ding-a-Ling” by Chuck Berry.

FAQs

Why is oral health important?
Oral health impacts overall health, including digestion and disease prevention.

How can I celebrate National Dentist’s Day?
Thank your dentist, schedule a check-up, or share appreciation online.

What are some tips for good dental hygiene?
Brush twice daily, floss regularly, and visit your dentist biannually.

What is National Ding-A-Ling Day?
It is a day dedicated to reconnecting with friends and family through phone calls or messages, celebrated on December 12th each year.

How can I celebrate?
You can celebrate by calling someone you haven’t spoken to in a while or reaching out via social media using #DingALingDay.

Why is it called Ding-a-Ling Day?
The name references both the sound of a ringing phone and adds a lighthearted element associated with being a little silly or eccentric.

Importance of National Ding-A-Ling Day

This holiday serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining social connections. In our fast-paced world, taking time to reach out can strengthen relationships and enhance well-being.

Related

  • World Oral Health Day
  • International Women’s Day
  • National Doctors’ Day