CarolinasDentist Blog

Lucy Hobbs Taylor, D.D.S. (1833-1910): The First Female Dentist

Lucy Hobbs Taylor

Each day, we use technology, eat food, take medication, and more. Often, there are invisible women behind the innovations we cherish. This March, we want to do our part to help shine the spotlight on those women! This Women’s History Month, we’re proud to celebrate the first female dentist, Dr. Lucy Hobbs Taylor!

A Pioneer in Dental History

Lucy Hobbs Taylor, D.D.S., is a trailblazing figure in dentistry, remembered as the first woman to receive a Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) degree. Born in 1833 in New York, Lucy faced significant challenges in her quest to become a dentist. Despite societal norms and barriers of her time, she relentlessly pursued her passion for dentistry to become the first female dentist.

Apprenticeship

In 1859, Taylor embarked on her dental education journey, seeking an apprenticeship under Dr. Samuel Wardle in Ohio. Her dedication and skill were evident, yet her application to the Ohio College of Dental Surgery was initially rejected due to her gender. It took four years of perseverance and establishing her practice before the college recognized her achievements and admitted her in 1865.

Graduation

Upon her acceptance, the college placed her directly into the senior class, allowing her to graduate within months due to her extensive knowledge and practical experience. Finally, in 1866, Lucy Hobbs Taylor achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming the first woman to graduate with a D.D.S. degree. Her accomplishment shattered gender barriers in dentistry, paving the way for future generations of women in the field.

Dr. Laura Johnson, DMD at our Asheville location.

Championing Women’s Rights

Undoubtedly, Lucy Hobbs Taylor’s impact went beyond her professional achievements. She was a vocal advocate for women’s rights, particularly in dentistry. She also became a significant figure in the women’s suffrage movement, fighting for equal rights and opportunities for women across professions.

Comprehensive Dentistry with Modern Values in North Carolina

This March, as we celebrate the women who have paved the way, we’re proud to reflect those values at Carolinas Dentist. Our diverse team is committed to providing the best care for your smile, inspired by pioneers like Dr. Lucy Hobbs Taylor. Contact us to learn more about our commitment to excellence and equality in dental care.

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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