National Dentist’s Day

Ancient Egyptians created one of the earliest tooth-cleaning powders by grinding eggshells and mixing them with pumice.

The Chinese invented toothbrushes using boar bristles in the Tang Dynasty, while ancient Mayans used seashells to craft rudimentary dental implants.

These cultures linked dental health to broader spiritual or magical practices, such as prayers or amulets believed to ward off toothaches.

Today, we find remnants of these practices in certain folk remedies still passed down in rural areas.

Early fillings in the 19th century included materials like tin and lead, some of which were toxic.

Before that, silver-mercury amalgam was a common choice, although it raised health concerns later.

Ancient dentists were shockingly creative: in Japan, samurai dyed their teeth black with a mixture of iron and vinegar to show loyalty.

In some cultures, beetle wings and jade were used to replace missing teeth, blending function with aesthetics.

The first toothbrushes, invented in 15th-century China, used hog bristles attached to bamboo or bone handles. These were effective for scrubbing but retained bacteria.

In Europe, the idea evolved into horsehair brushes or even sponges. Modern toothbrushes were revolutionized in 1938 with the introduction of nylon bristles, offering better hygiene and durability.

Today, cutting-edge designs include self-cleaning and eco-friendly toothbrushes that dissolve after use.

Medieval barbers were multi-skilled professionals who cut hair, performed surgeries, and pulled teeth.

Known as “barber-surgeons,” they worked in monasteries or town squares. Their iconic red-and-white barber poles symbolized bloodletting, a common practice they performed.

The dual role persisted until professional dentistry began developing as a separate field in the 18th century.

In countries like India, dentists are celebrated during National Oral Hygiene Day to promote awareness.

In Japan, children mark the loss of baby teeth by throwing them on rooftops (for upper teeth) or under floors (for lower teeth) while thanking dentists for good care.

In Mexico, Dia del Dentista, celebrated in February, combines gratitude with feasts honoring dentists. Some dental practices in the U.S. celebrate by hosting free dental check-ups on National Dentist’s Day.

March 6th commemorates Dr. John Greenwood, George Washington’s dentist, who was born on this day.

Greenwood famously designed Washington’s dentures—not made of wood as commonly believed, but crafted from human teeth, ivory, and gold springs.

The date also aligns with the start of spring, symbolizing renewal and health.

Many believe George Washington had wooden teeth, but his dentures contained no wood—only ivory, gold, and human teeth.

Another myth claims sugary gum will always rot teeth, but sugar-free gum can actually reduce plaque.

In medieval Germany, people thought kissing a donkey could cure a toothache, a superstition that highlights how desperate early humans were to avoid dental pain.

The term “dentist” stems from the French word “dentiste,” itself derived from “dent,” meaning tooth.

The word gained popularity in the 18th century when Pierre Fauchard, considered the father of modern dentistry, published his groundbreaking book on dental techniques.

His work laid the foundation for today’s terminology and practices.

The Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, established in 1840, was the first dental college worldwide.

It marked the shift from informal apprenticeships to formal education.

Its establishment also introduced licensing exams, professional ethics, and a higher standard of dental care, making dentistry a respected science and profession.

Toothache remedies in history were wild. Medieval Europeans kissed donkeys to “cure” pain, while some chewed cloves or burned herbs like henbane and inhaled the smoke.

In ancient India, ayurvedic healers recommended chewing on neem sticks, a practice now backed by science for its antibacterial properties.