Parker;[1][2] 22 March 1872 – 8 November 1952) was a Canadian-born street dentist[1] described as "a menace to the dignity of the profession" by the American Dental Association.

He enrolled in Temple University School of Dentistry (formerly Philadelphia Dental College) and after pleading with the reluctant dean, he was granted a diploma in 1892.

"[7] In 1913, Parker purchased a traveling circus and became its ringmaster, performing dental work with sideshow acts such as elephants, contortionists, trapeze artists, clowns, and a loud brass band that attracted crowds.

[2] To encourage participation, Painless began with a demonstration in which he pretended to yank a molar from a calm audience member, whom he had planted.

[1][2] Painless Parker garnered publicity for various stunts, including appearances with celebrities and treating a hippo named Lucas.

[12] Other targets of Painless Parker's court battles include Oakland mayor who attempted to ban sidewalk dentistry.

[9][11] His obituary declared him "America's most widely advertised chain dentist" and said he "made and lost several fortunes in what he once termed 'the noble tooth-plumbing profession.

[4] In a Smithsonian magazine article, Parker is described as "a huckster and, arguably, a con man" as well as "a founding father of good dental practices.

[5] Painless Parker's largest office, located on 7th and Main in Los Angeles, still operates as a dental practice under new owners.