A Historical Timeline of Dentistry in the 18th Century

Dentistry is an old profession. Its origins go back as far as 12,000 BC. However, it has evolved quite a bit over the years. The 18th century in particular was a time when the profession advanced a great deal. Here’s a timeline of how it happened:

1723: A French surgeon named Pierre Fauchard publishes a book called The Surgeon Dentist, A Treatise on Teeth. This was the first book to provide a comprehensive system for practicing dentistry, and for this reason he is often called the Father of Modern Dentistry.
1746: Frenchman Claude Mouton is the first to write in detail about the use of gold cap crowns for repairing decayed teeth and recommends covering them in white enamel for a more aesthetic appearance.
1760: Dentistry begins in America when John Baker, a dentist from England, immigrates to what would soon become the United States.
1768-1776: Paul Revere advertises his services as a dentist in a Boston newspaper. Later he identifies his deceased friend at the Battle of Breed’s Hill by examining a bridge he constructed for him. This is the first known case of post-mortem dental forensics.
1789: Frenchman Nicholas Dubois de Chemant obtains the first patent for porcelain teeth.
1790: A dentist of George Washington named John Greenwood constructs what is called a dental foot engine – a motion operated dental drill. Meanwhile, Josiah Flagg constructs the first dental chair.

Dr. Robert Haas and all of us at Family Dentistry, Inc. in Lebanon, Ohio, are grateful for all the efforts and sacrifices of great men and women who contributed to the advances of dentistry. Would you like to experience the amazing benefits of dentistry in the 21st century? Call us at 513-932-6991.