Dental History

As early as 5000 BC, there have been references to dentistry. An early Sumerian text describes "tooth worms" as a cause of dental decay. In 2600 BC, there is record of one of the first people referred to as a dentist, Hesy-Re. His tomb lists him as a person who dealt with teeth, and as a physician. Well-known philosophers such as Hippocrates and Aristotle also wrote about dentistry. As early as 166 AD, there is record of gold crowns and bridgework being done on patients.

During the Middle Ages, monks were typically the ones that performed dental work, as they were considered some of the most educated people of the time. There was also a period of time where barbers were known to help the monks perform dental work. The first book written entirely about dentistry was published in 1530.

In 1760, John Baker left England and went to America to start the first dental practice there. The first native-born American dentist was Issac Greenwood, who practiced from 1760-1780. In 1839, the first dental journal is published, and in 1840 the first dental organization, the American Society of Dental Surgeons, is formed. In 1841, the first state to regulate dentistry in the United States was Alabama. Throughout the late 1800's, numerous advances are made in dentistry.

Advances continue throughout the 20th century. Items such as reclining dental chairs, flouride toothpaste, nylon toothbrushes, and electric toothbrushes are invented. More professional dental organizations are created such as the American Association of Dental Schools and the American Dental Assistant Association. In 1933, the first National Board dental examinations are conducted. As time passes, more dental advances are being made.