Dentistry Through the Ages: a Timeline (Part III of V)

In Part III of this 5-part series detailing the evolution of dentistry from its ancient origins to modern day, we’ll take a look at dentistry during the 18^th Century.

1746

Claude Mouton describes a gold crown and post to be retained in a patient’s root canal. He also recommends white enameling for gold crowns for a more esthetic appearance.

1760

John Baker, the earliest medically trained dentist to practice in America, immigrates from England.

1764

First lectures about the teeth take place at the Royal College of Surgeons, Edinburgh, and are given by James Rae.

1768-1770

Paul Revere places advertisements in a Boston newspaper offering his services as a dentist. 

1771

John Hunter publishes The Natural History of Human Teeth, giving a scientific basis to dental anatomy.

1776

Paul Revere performs the first post-mortem dental forensics. Revere identifies his friend, Dr. Joseph Warren, who died in the Battle of Breed’s Hill. Revere is able to identify the dental bridge that he constructed for Warren.

1780

William Addis manufactures the first modern toothbrush.

1789

Frenchman Nicolas Dubois de Chemant patents his invention of porcelain teeth. 

1790

John Greenwood, one of George Washington’s dentists, constructs the first known dental foot engine to rotate a drill by adapting his mother’s foot treadle spinning wheel.

1790

Josiah Flagg, a prominent American dentist, constructs the first chair made specifically for dental patients. Flagg attaches an adjustable headrest and instrument carrier to a wooden Windsor chair.

In our next installment, we’ll take a look at dentistry during the 19^th Century.

For information about the Ferber Dental Group, dental implants, dentures or periodontal concerns, call 561-439-8888 or visit www.ferberdental.com.