The Legend of the Tooth Worm
One of Dentistry’s Strangest Myths
Turning to Magic and Ritual
Toothaches are uncomfortable enough without getting slimy critters involved. However, for the majority of human history, “tooth worms” were believed to be the actual source of toothaches and other oral health issues. Where did this belief come from, why was it so pervasive across cultures, and how did the precursors to modern dentists treat the problem? The answers might surprise you.
declares, “The blood of the tooth I will suck, and of the gum I will gnaw its roots!” While it is unclear if this inscription was the genesis of the myth, Babylon certainly wasn’t the only place it appeared.
Before modern medical science, people turned to the supernatural to cure their dental issues. After all, the tooth worm was thought to be a semimagical being, so why not fight magic with magic? Some of the less graphic premodern treatments included trying to smoke the worm out by using honey to lure the worm out of the tooth or banishing the evil creature through ceremonial chants. Today, we know tooth worms don’t exist, and our dentists won’t cast any magic spells on you (we promise). However, every story has a nugget of truth: While much smaller than worms, bacteria do feed on our tooth enamel. That’s why regular cleanings twice a year are important to keep your smile happy and healthy!
Worming Through History
This hungry little worm appears again in Mayan legends, Sinhalese folk charms, and even 18th-century books on dentistry. How did so many cultures from around the world believe in the same pernicious little creature? One theory suggests premodern dentists removing dental crowns mistook the underlying nerve for the worm. However, more recent research from the University of Maryland Dental School has revealed “wormlike” structures inside molars that could have inspired the myth.
Unearthing the Worm
The first mention of a worm that fed on human teeth can be found in an ancient Babylonian cuneiform inscription. The tale depicts a conversation between a worm and Mesopotamian gods, in which the worm
Dr. Stuckey’s Playlist
Have you heard about Kids’ Day? Once a month, Briarfield Dental Care throws a special celebration focused exclusively on our youngest patients. The office is transformed with fun decorations, the whole team gets dressed up, and there are lots of prizes for kids who come in to join the fun. Plus, we have special spin brushes and offers on sealants and mouthguards only available during our Kids’ Days. Don’t Miss Kids’ Day
Great Beats to Achieve Your New Year’s Resolutions
Did you know that 80% of New Year’s resolutions are doomed to fail? This number comes from a U.S. News report, and it’s pretty discouraging. Why make a New Year’s resolution if there’s only a 20% chance of success? Personally, I think the difference between success and
Kevin, to see RHCP live in Detroit when he was in high school. It was a great concert, and they’re still my son’s favorite band. Kevin has seen them perform many times and even got backstage passes to meet them once.
failure in New Year’s resolutions is motivation. Since most New
I put on RHCP when I work out because most of their songs
Year’s resolutions involve health and exercise, I got to thinking about the bands that motivate me when I’m working out. This month, the Red Hot Chili Peppers (RHCP) are at the top of my playlist.
have a fast beat that gets you moving. My favorite song of
theirs to work out to is “By the Way.” It’s a funky song that has two different types of beats, alternating between a smooth rock and faster hip-
Jan. 20 - Disney Day Feb. 18 - Circus Day
March 19 - Dinosaur Day April 23 - Superhero Day May 21 - Shark Day
hop verses. It’s exactly what you need when doing cardio.
Have a Laugh!
RHCP is probably one of the more well-known groups I’ve talked about in a while. They’re an alternative
If your New Year’s resolutions don’t involve hitting the gym more but you want to check out the Red Hot Chili Peppers, I recommend putting on one of their albums, either “Stadium Arcadium” or “Californication.” Both have some really good songs that are fun to listen to.
rock group, and their sound is a mix of rock, funk, and hip hop. Since they started playing in 1983, many of their songs have become popular in the mainstream. The band has a good variety of music.
While I don’t like all of their songs, the ones I do like make for good listening. I took my son,
Good luck with your New Year’s resolutions!
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