The practice of dentistry has come a long way since the ancient Sumerians believed that “tooth worms” were the cause of tooth decay. While we now know that “tooth worms” don’t exist, the journey to modern dentistry has been an incredible evolution, from early treatments to the advanced, comfortable care we receive today. Let’s explore how dentistry has progressed over the centuries and what the future may hold.
The Early Beginnings
Did you know that the ancient Egyptians had designated doctors for teeth? They were among the first to recognize the importance of dental care. Evidence also suggests that the Chinese used acupuncture as early as 2700 B.C.E. to relieve pain from tooth decay. Around 500 B.C.E., Hippocrates and Aristotle discussed dental treatments, including the use of red-hot wires to stabilize loose teeth and jaw fractures.
The 1600s-1700s: A Time of Innovation
The 17th and 18th centuries were transformative for dentistry. In 1695, Charles Allen published the first English-language dental textbook, The Operator of Teeth, which recommended homemade toothpastes and even proposed using dog’s teeth for dental transplants. Pierre Fauchard, often called the “father of modern dentistry,” published The Surgeon Dentist in the 18th century, where he introduced several revolutionary ideas, such as the concept of braces, the use of sugar as a cause of cavities, and even the idea of a light above the dentist’s chair.
The 1800s: Rapid Advancements
The 1800s saw significant breakthroughs in dental care. In 1816, Auguste Taveau created the first dental fillings made from silver coins and mercury. By 1840, nitrous oxide and ether anesthesia were introduced, allowing for a much more comfortable experience for patients. The first dental school and dental society were founded by Horace Hayden and Chapin Harris. Innovations like porcelain inlays and mechanized dental drills revolutionized the way dentistry was practiced.
The 1900s: The Age of Scientific Discovery
With the advent of electricity in the 1900s, the development of electric dental drills marked a turning point. In 1907, precision fillings were made using a “lost wax” casting machine, and Novocain became the standard for anesthesia in dental offices. The 1950s saw the introduction of tooth bonding to repair enamel cracks, followed by the invention of the fully-reclining dental chair. By the 1990s, invisible braces and at-home tooth bleaching systems became available to patients.
What’s Next for Dentistry?
Today, the focus is on the connection between oral health and overall health. Researchers are exploring gene therapies that could help make teeth more resistant to decay. Some believe that in the future, it may be possible to grow new tooth structures around weakened enamel.
At Strawberry Hill Family Dental, we are committed to providing our patients in Surrey, BC with the most advanced dental care available. Whether you’re looking for routine care or exploring cutting-edge treatments, we’re here to help. Schedule your visit today and experience modern dentistry firsthand.