The Tooth Hurts! | Dentistry in the Middle Ages...

Even in the 21st century, many people are still afraid to visit the dentist, as it can be an unpleasant experience. Try to imagine it in the Middle Ages without anesthetic and with no sophisticated dental tools. Any affliction of the teeth meant a trip to the barber surgeon, who was the go-to medical practitioner at the time, or even the blacksmith if no barber was available. It is a common misconception that dental care was poor during the Middle Ages, a lack of medicine and unhygienic conditions made the era a perfect environment for disease and ill health. Surprisingly though, there is a lot of historical evidence to show us that Medieval people actually made great efforts to look after their teeth and gums. Lets travel back in time, and look at dentistry in the middle ages!