How Did They Fix Teeth in Ancient Times?

The use of dentistry dates back to the very dawn of human civilization. Various cultures have used creative and often painful methods to address oral health issues. From the application of herbs and spices to the use of crude tools, the evolution of dental practices is a fascinating journey through time.

Prehistoric Dentistry

Teeth cleaning methods in ancient times were quite rudimentary, with people using twigs and other natural fibers. Typically, after every meal, individuals would chew the ends of twigs to separate the fibers, effectively brushing their teeth, gums, and tongues. These early brushing methods were a crucial factor in keeping cavities at bay due to a lack of processed sugars in their diet. (Keyword: ancient dentistry)

Evidence from Prehistory

The earliest known evidence of dental work dates back to the Upper Paleolithic era, around 14,000 years ago, with an Italian man who died with a drilled molar. Around 13,000 years ago, another individual was found with a dental filling, believed to be one of the earliest known instances of dental repair. This shows that dentistry, in some form, has existed for at least 13,000 years.

Removal of Tooth Worms

A significant belief in ancient cultures was that tooth decay was caused by tooth worms. These mythical creatures were thought to live in the teeth and cause pain. Sumerian texts from around 5,000 B.C. described how tooth worms caused decay, and people used various natural substances to alleviate pain, believing it would somehow eliminate the tooth worm.

Other Ancient Remedies

During the Middle Ages, individuals used a variety of substances to treat ailments. Donkey's milk was used as a mouthwash to strengthen gums and teeth, while honey was applied to infected teeth. Spider juice was another remedy used to cure toothaches, and onions were placed in the ear corresponding to the aching tooth to soothe the pain. (Keyword: tooth decay)

Evolution of Dentistry

In the early modern period, Pierre Fauchard, a French dentist, published "The Surgeon Dentist" in 1723, a comprehensive treatise on the subject. Fauchard introduced the concept of dental fillings and dental protheses, and he highlighted the role of sugar in causing tooth decay. He is now recognized as the 'Father of Modern Dentistry.'

The First Dental College

The first dental college, the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, opened in 1840, marking a significant milestone in the professionalization of dentistry. Following this, Alabama passed the first state dental practice act in 1841, and the American Dental Association was formed in 1859. The Harvard University Dental School, established in 1867, further solidified the credibility of dentistry as a scientific and medical profession.

The Emergence of Modern Toothpaste and Practices

The first mass-produced toothpaste was invented by Colgate in 1873, followed by mass-produced toothbrushes a few years later. It wasn't until after World War II that the majority of Americans adopted regular brushing habits.

Interesting Facts

Throughout history, several notable figures have contributed to the development of dentistry. For instance, the first dental practitioner was recognized as the Egyptian scribe Hesy-Re, who lived around 2600 B.C. In America, John Baker, an English surgeon and dentist, settled in Boston in 1763, and Edward H. Angle, who started the first school of orthodontics in 1901, created a classification for crooked teeth that is still in use today.

Conclusion

The evolution of dental practices from ancient times to the present day reflects both the resilience of human ingenuity and the advancements in medical science. While early methods might seem crude by today's standards, they set the foundation for the sophisticated dental care we enjoy today.