Eighteenth Century Dentistry Overview

Chapter XII: The Eighteenth Century of Dentistry

  • Overview of Eighteenth Century Dentistry

    • Prior to the eighteenth century, dentistry was largely viewed as part of general medicine and surgery.
    • The seventeenth century saw gradual specialization in dentistry, with the field gaining recognition as a distinct specialty by the end of the century.
    • Key Contributors:
      • Pierre Fauchard revolutionized dental practice, setting the foundation for modern dentistry.

  • Ludwig Cron (Barber of Leipsic):

    • Published in 1717, arguing against detaching the gum before tooth extraction, stating it was an unnecessary practice.

  • Lorenz Heister (1683-1758): One of the most significant surgeons of the eighteenth century:

    • Discussed treatment for dental caries in his 1718 surgical texts.
    • Proposed removing decayed parts of teeth with a file; suggested using heated wax or mastic for fillings.
    • Mentioned the use of clove or cinnamon oil for pain relief and cauterization for severe symptoms.
    • Introduced movable prosthetic teeth, using materials like ivory and hippopotamus tusk; advocated hygiene for dental prosthetics.

  • René Jacques Croissant de Garengeot (1688-1759):

    • Skeptical of excessive dental surgeries and cautioned against using the file, fearing damage to enamel.
    • Known for the development of extraction tools (the key).

  • Johann Junker (1679-1759):

    • Published treatises on dental ailments; suggested preventive measures against tartar and cautioned against unnecessary extractions.

  • Guillaume Maquest de la Motte (1655-1737):

    • Emphasized early intervention for gum abscesses to prevent complications.

  • Johann Adolf Göritz:

    • Warned against the frequent extraction of teeth, advocating preservation of natural teeth over artificial replacements.

  • Pierre Fauchard:

    • Born ~1690, died 1761; recognized as the founder of modern dentistry. Wrote Le Chirurgien Dentiste (published 1728).
    • Revolutionized the perception of dentists, distinguishing them from mere tooth-pullers.
    • Noted that the lack of comprehensive training in dental surgery led to a prevalence of uninformed practitioners.

  • Introduction of Surgical and Theoretical Dental Practices in France around 1700:

    • Dentists officially recognized in Paris after examinations.
    • Fauchard criticized this system for not adequately training aspirants in dental surgery.

  • Pierre Fauchard's Contributions:

    • Advocated for comprehensive care, detailing various diseases and treatments categorically.
    • Discussed historical misconceptions (e.g., dental worms), emphasizing a more scientific understanding of dental diseases and treatments.
    • Laid out firm classifications for dental maladies, offering 103 distinct conditions due to both external and internal causes.

  • Advancements in Dental Procedures:

    • He outlined the methods for treating caries, including the use of files and lead for filling cavities, and advocated for better techniques in cauterization.
    • Encouraged dental hygiene and preventive care, noting the importance of regular cleaning and care to avoid complications.

  • Transition to Scientific Dentistry:

    • Fauchard's work marked a significant departure from medieval practices, incorporating anatomy, physiology, and surgical technique into dental practices.
    • Educational reforms began to improve the status and skill of dental practitioners, noting previously overlooked areas like prosthetics and orthodontics.

  • Modern Practices Evolving:

    • Discussions of dental prosthetics began with new materials being explored for durability and appearance, including the development of complete artificial sets.

  • Overall Impact:

    • The advancements made during the eighteenth century laid the groundwork for modern dentistry, moving towards scientific methodology and professional standards.