Toothaches in the Western Frontier

Americans in 2018 don’t know how lucky they are to have trained dental professionals. Did you know that:

  • Blacksmiths and barbers extracted hurting teeth until dentists were trained in the mid- 1800s?
  • Once affordable sugar started pouring into the country from the West Indies there was massive tooth decay?
  • Since extracting a tooth was the only remedy for a painful tooth until the 19th century, the only thing to numb the area was a shot of whiskey?
  • The dental drill was invented during the Victorian Era?  It was operated by a foot pedal and a belt that turned the wheel and got the drill buzzing. It was the only way to chip away at tooth decay.
  • In the early 20th Century dentistry was still so expensive that people opted to have all their teeth pulled rather than eventually endure pain? It was actually considered a coveted gift for a new bride or a significant birthday.

Now, aren’t you glad you have the trusted and highly trained staff at Shearer Family and Cosmetic Dentistry?

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