TheHistoryOf.net

Dentistry is a significant branch of medicine which deals with the study, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders and diseases of the oral structures, oral cavity, maxillofacial, and further related structures and their relation to the human body. In fact, it is a necessary system for extensive overall health. Apparently, Dentists are professionals and experts who practice dentistry; thus, they aid in providing and supporting oral health services. Dental services include dental hygienists, dental assistants, dental therapists, and dental technicians.

Ancient Evidences

It has been proven that dentistry started way back the earliest civilizations particularly the Indus Valley Civilization. The observation of dentistry dated as early as 7000 BC involved the treatment of tooth-related disorders using bow drills. The practice was believed to be performed by experienced bead craftsmen.

Early Studies

As early as 5000 BC, the Sumerians discovered that ‘tooth worm’ was the foundation of dental caries. Consequently, the same conviction was deemed probable in the ancient civilizations of Egypt, China, and Japan. Likewise, some writings of Homer described similar belief or legend of the ‘tooth worm’. Guy de Chauliac, a surgeon of 14th century AD supported that indeed worms were the cause of tooth decay. In the seventeenth century BC, the Edwin Smith Papyrus writing reflected prior manuscripts from 3000 BC, stating treatment of some dental ailments. Subsequent to that was the so-called Code of Hammurabi in the eighteenth century BC indicating dental extraction in relation to punishment. Moreover, there were proofs of attempted dental surgery and prosthetics on the remains of several ancient Greco-Romans and Egyptians.

Great Scholars

A few of the well-known ancient Greek scholars Aristotle and Hippocrates also wrote about dentistry. It was included in their scripts about the eruption prototype of teeth, gum diseases, treating decayed teeth, extraction of teeth by use of forceps, as well as the use of wires to soothe loose teeth including fractured jaws. Similarly, many people believed that the initial employment of bridges or dental appliances came from the Etruscans in the early 700 BC. Furthermore, Hesi-Re from ancient Egypt was suggested to be the first person to be addressed as ‘dentist’. Egyptian used a gold wire to attach replacement teeth together; hence Hesi-Re was well-known as the “greatest of the teeth”. Finally, Cornelius Celsus, a Roman medical writer extensively wrote a script for oral diseases, dental treatments including narcotic-containing astringents and emollients.

Historical Significance

Besides its numerous evidences, manuscripts, and early employment, dentistry was primarily discovered mainly for the treatment of various oral diseases. Previously, dentistry was not considered as a profession; thus, dental procedures were often carried out by general physicians or barbers. In connection to this, barbers only restricted their practice to teeth extraction which greatly alleviated pain and other related chronic tooth infection.

Present Relevance

Without a doubt, dentistry is a relevant practice or method in the society. It compasses very essential practices, services, and treatment to the oral health. Regardless of what background or ethnicity one comes from, the necessity for oral health care is equally relevant. Hence, oral diseases are inevitable and being aware of such conditions needs proper and professional care and treatment. Indeed, understanding the importance of proper oral health care entails adequate information, proper treatment, and professional care. As a result, there are numerous dentists across the globe to execute proper dental treatments, but looking for the most suitable one could be a daunting task. That’s why, for appropriate dental needs and oral care, a visit to a dentist in Lexington, KY is significantly reasonable.

About The Author

In spite of the comprehensive beginnings and developments of dentistry, Melissa Cameron has come to understand its importance to each culture and to every human being. Though she’s busy as an online writer, she always finds extra time to spend with her family. And for her personal goals, she wants to live in a clean environment as well as to maintain body hygiene, including her dental health care. During her spare time, she visits a cosmetic dentist in Lexington, KY for a regular health check and dental maintenance.