Last Updated on September 27, 2024
Dentistry has evolved remarkably from ancient times to the present day. For instance, “tooth worms” were once believed to cause tooth decay, as stated in a Sumerian text from around 5,000 B.C.E. However, over time, the dental industry has advanced significantly, and we now know that “tooth worms” don’t exist. Consequently, modern dentistry has transformed into a comfortable, safe, and beneficial science. Here’s how this evolution has unfolded.
The Dawn of Dentistry
Did you know that the ancient Egyptians had designated doctors for teeth? Evidence has been uncovered suggesting the Chinese used acupuncture to treat pain associated with tooth decay as early as 2700 B.C.E.
Additionally, in 500 B.C.E., Hippocrates and Aristotle documented methods for treating teeth and oral diseases using sterilization procedures and red-hot wires. Furthermore, they described employing these red-hot wires to stabilize jaw fractures and bind loose teeth.
Revolutionary Thoughts of the 1600s and 1700s
According to the Academy of General Dentistry, the 1600s and 1700s were a gold mine of innovation in the dental world. In 1695, Charles Allen published the first ever English dental textbook entitled The Operator of Teeth. In the book, he advises using a homemade toothpaste from powdered coal, rose-water, and “dragon’s blood” to keep teeth clean and white. Allen also suggests using dog’s teeth for transplants and even references wisdom teeth in his book.
In the 18th century, Pierre Fauchard revolutionized dental practice with his groundbreaking work, The Surgeon Dentist. He introduced dentistry as a modern profession, highlighting several key advancements. Fauchard identified sugar as the cause of dental caries (cavities), recommended using braces to correct teeth alignment, and pioneered the concept of a dentist’s chair light.
Innovations of the 1800s
The discoveries and inventions of the 1800s were significant. In 1816, Auguste Taveau developed the first form of dental fillings made out of silver coins and mercury. In 1840, Horace Wells demonstrated the use of nitrous oxide to sedate patients and Thomas Morton employed the use of ether anesthesia for surgery.
That same year, Horace Hayden and Chapin Harris advanced modern dentistry by founding the first dental school, creating the modern doctorate of dental surgery, and establishing the first dental society. By the end of the 1800s, innovations like porcelain inlays, the mechanized dental drill, and the toothpaste tube emerged.
Scientific Advances of the 1900s
The scientific advancements of the 1900s sparked significant progress in dentistry. Electric drills emerged thanks to the invention of electricity. In 1907, innovators introduced precision case fillings using a “lost wax” casting machine for cavity repairs, while Novocain became available in U.S. dental offices.
In 1955, Michael Buonocore described the method of tooth bonding to repair cracked enamel on teeth. Years later, the first fully-reclining dental chair is introduced to put patients and dentists at ease. By the 1990s, “invisible” braces were introduced, along with the first at-home tooth bleaching system.
The Future of Dentistry
Today, dental professionals explore how oral health connects with overall health. They focus on gene therapies that could strengthen teeth against decay. Researchers also investigate methods to regenerate tooth structure around weakened enamel. While the future of dentistry remains to be seen, our office remains committed to adopting the latest and most effective technologies as they emerge.
Conclusion
Dentistry has come a long way from ancient practices to today’s high-tech solutions. As a result, we now have access to advanced treatments and technologies. Meanwhile, as the field continues to evolve, we remain dedicated to offering cutting-edge dental care. Therefore, contact us today to schedule your next visit and experience the benefits of modern dentistry.