Who is the world's oldest dentist?
Dr. Etsuro Watanabe, from Japan, was officially verified by Guinness World Records as the world's oldest practicing dentist in May 2024, at the age of 99 years and 133 days. Following his 100th birthday in October 2024, he has continued his dental practice, a testament to his lifelong dedication and remarkable health. His commitment is so profound that even after reducing his hours to mornings-only after turning 92, he expressed his desire to contribute to his community for as long as he is able.
Dr. Watanabe's journey to dental longevity
Dr. Watanabe's journey began at the age of 15 when he became a dental apprentice in Tokyo. After serving in the military during World War II, he returned to Japan and worked as a dental technician. He eventually enrolled in dental college in 1947, passed his national exams, and opened his own practice in his hometown of Oshino in 1953. For many years, his was the only dental clinic in the village, making him an indispensable part of his community.
His long career is attributed to several factors:
- Patient Connection: Dr. Watanabe has said that seeing his patients happy is what keeps him going.
- Healthy Lifestyle: He grows his own blueberries, beans, and tomatoes, which he believes contributes to his long life.
- Strong Purpose: His desire to contribute to his community provides a powerful motivation to continue working.
Long-term careers in dentistry: An overview
Dr. Watanabe is not the only dentist to practice well into old age, though he is the world's oldest known and verified example. The American Dental Association's Health Policy Institute reports that the average retirement age for U.S. dentists was 69 in 2023, a trend that has been increasing over the past two decades. Many dentists cite the flexibility of their schedules, the rewarding nature of helping people, and the strong entrepreneurial opportunities as reasons for their long careers.
Why do dentists work longer?
- Autonomy: Many dentists, especially practice owners, enjoy a high degree of control over their work environment and schedule, allowing them to adjust their workload as they age.
- Intellectual Engagement: The field of dentistry is constantly evolving, offering continuous learning and stimulating challenges.
- Positive Patient Relationships: Building trust and rapport with patients over many years creates a fulfilling and meaningful experience that encourages continued practice.
- Financial Stability: With high earning potential, dentists can build long-term wealth, which can give them the option to work as long as they choose, rather than feeling forced to work for financial reasons.
Notable long-practicing dentists
While Dr. Watanabe holds the current world record, other dentists have also made headlines for their long careers:
- Dr. Robert Henry Johnson (USA): In 2022, a Central Texas dentist, then 90 years old, was believed to be the oldest practicing dentist in the U.S. He had been working for nearly 70 years and credited genetics and a love for his patients.
- Dr. John J. O'Brien (USA): A dentist in Massachusetts retired in 2023 at the age of 93, after working for 66 years [Source: Local News].
- Dr. Herman Ostrow (USA): A prominent oral surgeon, Dr. Ostrow practiced well into his 90s. The dental school at the University of Southern California is named in his honor.
Career comparisons: Dentistry vs. other professions
Dentistry's long career span, compared to physically demanding jobs, highlights the benefits of manual dexterity over brute force. The table below compares the average retirement age and career lengths across several professions.
| Profession | Average Retirement Age (US) | Typical Career Span (Years) | Factors Affecting Career Longevity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dentist | 69 (as of 2023) | ~41 (as of 2023) | Autonomy, reduced physical demands with age, patient relationships, intellectual engagement |
| Physician | 66 (varies by specialty) | ~35 | High burnout rates, demanding hours, administrative burden [Source: Medscape] |
| Teacher | 60–65 (varies by state) | ~30–40 | Burnout, administrative demands, public school system retirement rules |
| Construction Worker | ~61 | ~35–45 | Physically demanding, high risk of injury, physically taxing on the body |
| Airline Pilot | 65 (FAA limit) | ~40 | Strict age and health regulations imposed by governing bodies |
The oldest dentists in history
The story of older dentists working well into their later years is not limited to the modern era. Dentistry, with its focus on manual dexterity and patient care, has seen numerous individuals dedicate their entire lives to the practice. These include pioneers like Lucy Beaman Hobbs Taylor, the first American woman to earn a dental degree in 1866, who continued to practice for many years. The longevity of these careers is often tied to the personal satisfaction derived from helping others and the intellectual stimulation of solving complex oral health problems.
How does aging affect dental practice?
As dentists age, they may face physical challenges, such as chronic back and neck pain due to poor posture, or declining vision and manual dexterity. However, many adapt their practice to accommodate these changes. Some reduce their working hours, as Dr. Watanabe did, while others may focus on less physically demanding aspects of dentistry. For example, some may shift their focus from surgical procedures to consultations or managing their practice. Technology also plays a significant role in helping older dentists stay active, with innovations like ergonomic equipment and digital imaging reducing physical strain [Source: ADA].
The legacy of a long dental career
The legacy of an exceptionally long career in dentistry is not just the number of years worked, but the impact made on the community. Dentists like Etsuro Watanabe become pillars of their communities, providing not only dental care but also comfort and continuity to generations of families. Their experience is invaluable, as it provides a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of patient needs that younger dentists can learn from. Long-serving dentists often mentor new professionals, contributing to the next generation of dental excellence. This commitment to passing on knowledge ensures that the profession continues to evolve and improve for years to come.
Conclusion
While the average retirement age for dentists is trending upwards, the example of Dr. Etsuro Watanabe demonstrates that a long and fulfilling career in dentistry is achievable. His longevity, fueled by a passion for his work and a connection to his community, is an inspiration. The field's emphasis on flexibility, autonomy, and continuous learning makes it well-suited for a long career. While physical challenges may arise, many older dentists adapt their practice, often with the aid of modern technology, to continue providing excellent patient care. The dedication of these long-serving professionals not only impacts their own lives but also leaves a lasting legacy on the health and well-being of the communities they serve.
Additional resources
For further information on career trends and demographic data in dentistry, visit the American Dental Association's Health Policy Institute at https://www.ada.org/resources/research/health-policy-institute.
