Esteemed Chicago dentist dies

A dentist who previously served as a president for the Chicago Dental Society and was one of the first African American dentists to open a practice in downtown Chicago has died, The Chicago Crusader reported July 28.

Guy Bibbs Jr., DDS, died June 7 at Northwestern Memorial Hospital at the age of 73.

Dr. Bibbs received his dental degree from the University of Illinois College of Dentistry in Chicago, where he specialized in orthodontics. He was a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, Illinois Dental Society and the Lincoln Dental Society. He also served as president of the Chicago Dental Society-Kenwood/Hyde Park Branch.

He opened his first practice in Springfield, Ill., before opening Parkside Orthodontic Care in downtown Chicago. He was one of the first African American orthodontists to open a practice in the area, facing risks of financial struggles, alienating the Black community and not being accepted by white patients. However, he was able to successfully grow his practice and serve children and adult patients.

He is also highly regarded for use of temporary anchorage device therapy and was known as a mentor for other dentists, achieving published work and numerous awards.

He retired after 40 years of dentistry after closing his practice due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He is survived by his wife, two children and five grandchildren.

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