The history of dentistry is closely linked to the practices of ancient healers and early practitioners who addressed oral diseases using the knowledge, materials, and cultural beliefs of their time. From herbal remedies and ritualistic interventions to primitive extractions, these practitioners laid the foundation for professional dentistry. This study examines the role of ancient healers and early dentists in maintaining oral health, drawing on archaeological evidence, historical texts, and bioarchaeological data. Findings reveal that while treatments were often rudimentary, they were guided by empirical observation, cultural norms, and available technologies. Understanding these early practices provides insight into the evolution of dentistry and the enduring human concern for oral care.
Jurayev et al. (2026) studied this question.