Tim Conway and Harvey Korman Shine in “The Dentist”—An Uproarious Sketch from The Carol Burnett Show!

In the annals of television comedy, few moments stand out as brightly as “The Dentist,” a sketch from The Carol Burnett Show that has left audiences in stitches for decades. Featuring the unmatched comedic talents of Tim Conway and Harvey Korman, this sketch is often hailed as one of the most iconic and side-splitting performances in TV history.

The premise of “The Dentist” is simple yet brilliantly executed. Tim Conway plays a bumbling, newly-graduated dentist on his first day in the office. Nervous and eager to impress, he inadvertently injects himself with novocaine, setting off a series of increasingly ridiculous and uncontrollable physical gags. As Conway’s limbs go numb one by one, his attempts to carry out a routine dental procedure on the unsuspecting patient, played by Harvey Korman, spiral into sheer chaos.

What makes this sketch particularly memorable is Conway’s masterful physical comedy. His portrayal of a dentist slowly losing control of his own body is nothing short of genius. Every twitch, stumble, and slurred word is delivered with such precision that it leaves the audience—and Korman—on the verge of tears from laughter. In fact, Korman’s struggle to keep a straight face throughout the sketch has become almost as legendary as Conway’s performance itself.

The chemistry between Conway and Korman is the driving force behind the sketch’s success. Their impeccable timing and ability to play off each other’s reactions create a comedic rhythm that’s nearly impossible to replicate. Korman’s exasperated expressions and barely contained laughter only add to the hilarity, making the audience feel like they’re in on the joke.

“The Dentist” is more than just a funny skit; it’s a masterclass in comedic timing and physical humor. Conway’s ability to turn a simple dental visit into a disaster of epic proportions showcases his talent for making the absurd seem plausible. His performance in this sketch is a reminder of why he remains one of the most beloved figures in comedy.

Years after it first aired, “The Dentist” continues to be celebrated as a highlight of The Carol Burnett Show and a shining example of classic television comedy. It’s a sketch that has transcended generations, proving that great humor never goes out of style. Whether you’re watching it for the first time or the fiftieth, Tim Conway and Harvey Korman’s antics in “The Dentist” are guaranteed to leave you laughing out loud.