Clara Walworth MacNaughton studied dentistry at the University of Michigan where she graduated with her DDS in 1885. MacNaughton went on to become the Vice President of Michigan State Dental Association, the first woman to serve in this role. She opened a practice in Washington D.C. which she advertised specifically towards women and children. After becoming a widow at a young age, MacNaughton had a better understanding of the importance of women's Suffrage and became very active in the fight to earn the right to vote.