A Brief History of Dentistry - Health - Dental Care

7000 BC

Dentistry as we know it today is a relatively new practice, but the practice itself has roots dating back to ancient Sumer. Archeologists have discovered bow drills in the Indus Valley dating to 7000 BC that were used by master bead makers for dental procedures. It was believed that this process would relieve pressure and pain, and keep teeth from falling out.

700 BC

Dentistry continued to evolve as people started to explore ways in which teeth could be kept healthy and strong. In 700 BC, the first dental bridges were used by the Etruscans. By boring small holes in the teeth, gold wire could be strung through and tightened to reduce gaps. It is not clear if this process was considered aesthetic or functional.

Focus on Extraction

Despite the various methods of dental care in ancient times, until the late 16th century AD, extraction was the most common dental procedure. Lacking the tools and knowledge for preventative care and less extreme procedures, doctors and barbers would simply extract problem teeth. While this focus on extraction produced progressively more advanced tools, it still left much to be desired in the realm of overall oral health.

Pierre Fauchard

In 1723, a French surgeon by the name of Pierre Fauchard published his work, The Surgeon Dentist, A Treatise on Teeth, exploring the many ways teeth could be treated to avoid extractions. Publishing this first comprehensive guide to oral care, Fauchard has earned the title "the father of modern dentistry."

Modern Dentistry

The study of teeth continued to grow, and in 1840, dentistry became its own profession. During the next hundred years, our understanding of teeth led to advancements in both preventative and restorative dental procedures. Now, with our understanding of what causes dental problems, and continual advancements in dental technology, dentists are able to not only save existing teeth, but provide superior cosmetic processes that restore smiles to their most beautiful and radiant.

If you live in the St. Louis, Missouri area and would like to know more about modern dental procedures, please visit the website of Chesterfield Valley Dental Group today.

If you live in the St. Louis, Missouri area and would like to know more about modern dental procedures, please visit the website of Chesterfield Valley Dental Group today.