Society of American Indian Dentists founder dies at 94
Dr. George Blue Spruce widely recognized as first American Indian dentist
George Blue Spruce Jr., D.D.S., a celebrated figure in Native American health care, died on June 3. He was 94.
Dr. Blue Spruce, of Laguna and Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo heritage, was widely recognized as the first American Indian dentist in the country. He was the founder and president emeritus of the Society of American Indian Dentists.
As valedictorian of his high school, Dr. Blue Spruce earned his dental degree from Creighton University in 1956. His career started with the Indian Health Service, according to the Society of American Indian Dentists, where he witnessed firsthand the lack of dental care in native communities.
He served as assistant dean at the Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health and was a public speaker dedicated to inspiring future Indian health professionals.
In his autobiography, “Searching for My Destiny,” Dr. Blue Spruce spoke about the “critical need for American Indian dentists to serve our people” and encouraged American Indian students to consider this career path.
“I believed that an organization like [the Society of American Indian Dentists], once it gained visibility and credibility, would have more influence than a single person in persuading more American Indians to become dentists,” he wrote.
Jessica Rickert, D.D.S., the first female Native Indian dentist and Anishinaabe dental outreach specialist for Delta Dental of Michigan, remembers Dr. Blue Spruce as a mentor and friend. She said it was Dr. Blue Spruce who invited her to join the Society of American Indian Dentists.
“As the first and second American Indian dentists, Dr. George Blue Spruce and I faced dreadful challenges,” Dr. Rickert said. “As a consummate professional, his intelligence always impressed. Yet, Dr. Blue Spruce’s quick wit, humor and perfect timing brought us all together.”
A first-generation college student, Lisa Begay, D.M.D., received her hood from Dr. Blue Spruce in 2014 when she graduated from the Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health at A.T. Still University.
Dr. Begay, who grew up on the Navajo reservation in Oak Springs, Arizona, cited Dr. Blue Spruce as a mentor who helped her along the way when she spoke with ADA News in 2021.
“I am thankful for my guiding light and mentor, Dr. George Blue Spruce,” Dr. Begay said. “I hope to carry on his legacy for future generations.”
It was Dr. Blue Spruce’s life commitment to advocate for indigenous representation in health professions, according to the Society of American Indian Dentists. Today, there are approximately 450 American Indian dentists.
Cristin Haase, D.M.D., immediate past president of the society, looked back on Dr. Blue Spruce's many contributions, including opening doors for those who came after him.
"Each of us has a story about when we first met him, or the life lessons he has shared with us. We have this community of native dentists because of him, and the work he did to start the Society of American Indian Dentists. He is truly an icon, and we are all blessed to have known him," Dr. Haase said.
In a statement, the Society of American Indian Dentists said Dr. Blue Spruce has left an enduring legacy.
“We are deeply appreciative of his contributions, which include founding the organization in 1990, and leading initiatives such as scholarship, networking, and mentorship opportunities for future American Indian dental students,” the society said.
Dr. Blue Spruce was buried with full military honors at the National Cemetery in Santa Fe, New Mexico at 10 a.m. June 17. A celebration of life ceremony is scheduled for 2 p.m. Oct. 4 at the Heard Museum in Phoenix.
