Dr. Charles B. Millstein

Dr. Charles Millstein, a respected endodontist, educator, dental historian, and longtime Belmont resident, passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2026.

Born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in 1936, Dr. Millstein was a first generation American. He graduated from Brandeis University in 1958 and earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in 1962. Following dental school, he completed advanced specialty training in endodontics at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in 1963. He later earned a Master of Public Health degree from the Harvard School of Public Health and pursued numerous continuing education courses throughout his career, reflecting his lifelong commitment to learning and professional excellence.

After completing his education, Dr. Millstein served his country as a Captain in the United States Air Force. Following his military service, he established a private endodontic practice in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

For decades, Dr. Millstein provided skilled and compassionate care to generations of patients throughout the region. Known for his professionalism, dedication, and steady presence, he practiced endodontics until his retirement in 2013. For many years, he worked concurrently in his private Cambridge office and at Harvard University Health Services, where he provided specialized endodontic care to members of the Harvard community. Through both positions, he earned the respect of colleagues and the gratitude of countless patients.

In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Millstein was a dedicated scholar of dental history. He authored numerous papers on the history of dentistry and conducted oral history interviews with members of the profession. Several of these works are preserved in the library of Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, where they continue to serve as resources for students, faculty, and researchers. He was also on the faculty of Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, teaching dental history and sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm for the profession with future generations of dentists.

Dr. Millstein was actively involved with both the Massachusetts Dental Society and the Massachusetts Hispanic Dental Association. Through his work with the Massachusetts Hispanic Dental Association, he traveled to countries throughout the Caribbean and Latin America, helping to support dental education and improve access to dental care. He believed strongly in the profession’s responsibility to serve others and was proud to contribute his skills and experience to these efforts.

Outside of dentistry, Dr. Millstein pursued a wide range of interests. He had a lifelong passion for aviation and airplanes and was fascinated by the history of flight and technological innovation. He enjoyed sharing his knowledge with others through volunteer work at the Harvard Square Information Booth, the Harvard Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Science, and the Metropolitan Waterworks Museum. He loved meeting people, answering questions, and helping visitors discover the Boston areas local treasures.

Dr. Millstein also loved traveling, learning about different cultures, and spending time with family and friends. He especially enjoyed visiting the West Indies and returning to Martha’s Vineyard, a place that held special meaning throughout his life.

He was the beloved husband of Jean Millstein for 50 years and devoted companion to Paula Corman in his later years. He was the proud father of Jonathan Millstein and his partner Nadia, Seth Millstein, Rachel Millstein and her husband Adam, and Daniel Millstein and his wife Elyssa. He was the cherished grandfather of Dorian, Joshua, Helena, and Peter. He is survived by his brother Dr. Philip Millstein and pre-deceased by his brother Dr. David Millstein.

Dr. Millstein’s life was marked by a commitment to others, excellence in his profession, intellectual curiosity, and a devotion to his family and community. His contributions to dentistry, dental education, and the preservation of dental history will be remembered with gratitude and respect. His patients, colleagues, students, friends, and family all cherish their own "Charlie stories" and the impact that he had on their lives. His greatest joy was in sharing his good fortune. He did so with earnestness, compassion, and a distinct wit that touched so many.