10/01/2025
🦷 Dental History | Honoring Jane Goodall
Today, we pay tribute to the extraordinary Dr. Jane Goodall, our great protector of the wild, whose work not only transformed the world of primatology, but also deepened our understanding of the biological bridge between humans and animals-even our teeth.
Did you know that chimpanzees have the same number of teeth as humans-32 in total? Just like us, they experience tooth decay, gum disease, and even use natural tools to help clean their teeth. Some have been observed using twigs as primitive “toothbrushes,” while others chew on bitter medicinal plants to soothe oral pain-an ancient, instinctive form of dental care.
Goodall’s observations were among the first to reveal that our closest relatives not only think and feel, but also tend to their health in deeply familiar ways. Her research forever changed how we view animals: not as lesser beings, but as kin.
Jane didn’t just study primates-she gave them a voice and a future. Because of her, we see the wild not as something separate, but as something we’re all part of and responsible for. 🌍🕊️
Rest in peace, Dr. Goodall. Your legacy will live on in every curious young scientist and in every smile-human or primate-that shines with inner knowing, with the joy of life that comes from a true connection to the earth.