Ancient dentistry
Did you know that the Roman's were quite partial to cleaning their teeth?
Barber-surgeons and toothdrawers
In the 1400s, if you were in dental pain, you'd probably have your teeth pulled out by a barber
Operators for the teeth
The 17th century saw the emergence of a new practitioner known as the 'operator for the teeth'
The first 'dentists'
The term 'dentist' first appeared in the 18th century. Dentures were invented and the infamous 'waterloo teeth' were used to improve living peoples' smiles.
Development of the profession
In the 1870s, leading dentists including Sir John Tomes and Sir Edwin Saunders formed the Dental Reform Committee.
Military Dentistry
The poor dental health of recruits was revealed in the 1880s but there was no provision for dental care for soldiers until the establishment of the Army Dental Corps in 1921.
Teaching us to clean our teeth
In the late 19th century a more organised approach to dental health education developed
Dentistry for all
The 20th century saw an explosion of new materials, techniques and technology along with a better understanding of dental disease and its prevention
