Dr. Alfred C. Fones

Dr. Alfred C. Fones was a pioneering dentist in the early 20th century who is best known for establishing the first school dedicated to dental hygiene education, the Fones School of Dental Hygiene at the University of Connecticut. He emphasized the importance of preventive dental care and oral health education, helping to shift dentistry from treatment of problems to prevention. His work laid the foundation for the dental hygiene profession, creating a new role for trained professionals focused on patient education and routine dental care to improve overall oral health in the community.