Before modern dentistry, the best solution for toothaches and infections in teeth was through extractions. When it came to toothaches, this job wouldn't fall onto dentists but barbers. As you can see, during these ages the realm of dentistry had not yet been developed. Usually …show more content…
On the other hand, those who did not have much money would get their teeth extracted by blacksmith. During these ages, the best replacement of teeth were animal and human teeth. The earliest dentures were made by the Etruscans, they used gold wire or bands to attach human and animal teeth. Around the 17th century dentures were made out of hippopotamus, walrus and elephant ivory which were held by gold springs and wires. However, such teeth never looked natural and the ivory used in the base would progressively rot away over time. These early dentures were frequently fabricated by a craftsperson not a dentist. Due to the fabrication process dentures would fit very poorly causing pain and discomfort. Dentures were considered a luxury item and were only available for the wealthy due to cost. The first high quality dentures were made out of ivory and were known as Waterloo teeth (1*). After the battle of Waterloo in 1815, thieves and scavengers began pulling the teeth of young soldiers that were left on the battlefield. These teeth were …show more content…
I believed that dentures were available to all, due to the materials they used. I had also assumed that dentistry and dentists in general were already developed. Throughout my research I learned that dentist did not exist and those who were, called barbers were in charge of teeth extractions. It was unbelievable to learn that dentures were made from animal and human teeth. In the old days, infection control was a meaningless factor to many people. Many of those individuals did not know that there was a high risk of contracting diseases. Human teeth were so in demand in the 18th century that only the rich could purchase them. In the old day, dentures promoted beauty and were seen as luxuries to the rich so in many cases infection control did not matter. In today's world, infection control is a big part of our culture. We believe that appearance is important, but we also believe that being healthy is what matters the most. America has always been the land of opportunities and equality but it is not as simple as people believe. I do not think it’s right that about 108 million Americans do not have the opportunity to have a healthy smile, all because of insurance policies. It saddens me to know that other states do not focus on social classes to provide care for those who need it. If America does not expand their insurance plans to cover dental treatments, millions