When we think about dental care in the Middle Ages, the image that usually comes to mind involves pain and pliers—not exactly the comforting scene we associate with modern dental visits. It’s true that dental insurance didn’t exist, and if you had a toothache, you’d likely find yourself in the chair of the local barber. But unlike today’s dental professionals, these barbers weren’t trained in oral health. They used crude tools to yank out decayed teeth, often without any anesthesia. Novocain wouldn’t come along for hundreds of years, so you can imagine the agony that accompanied these extractions.
A Surprisingly Thoughtful Approach to Dental Hygiene
Despite the horrors of tooth pulling, medieval commoners weren’t entirely at the mercy of decay. In fact, people in the Middle Ages developed some fairly sophisticated hygiene practices to avoid the dreaded barber. One common technique involved rubbing teeth with a coarse woolen cloth to remove debris and keep teeth white. It might sound primitive, but it was surprisingly effective given the tools available at the time.
Yes, They Had Toothpaste and Mouthwash
Archaeological and textual evidence shows that medieval people didn’t just clean their teeth—they also used homemade toothpaste and mouthwashes. These were often made from herbs, ash, and even ground-up bones. While these substances might make today’s dentists cringe, they reflect a genuine concern for oral cleanliness and social presentation. After all, even in the Middle Ages, people cared about having white teeth and fresh breath.
Mint and Cloves: Ancient Breath Fresheners
To maintain pleasant breath, medieval individuals frequently chewed on aromatic herbs such as mint or cloves. Not only did these spices help mask the odor of a less-than-perfect diet, but they also had mild antiseptic properties. It’s not a stretch to say that the medieval version of chewing gum might have been a few mint leaves tucked inside the cheek.
A Lesson from the Past
While we’re lucky to have modern dental tools, anesthesia, and yes—dental insurance—it’s worth remembering that the desire for a clean mouth and a bright smile isn’t new. Even centuries ago, people went to surprising lengths to maintain dental hygiene. Their commitment is a reminder that caring for our teeth is both a personal and cultural tradition, passed down through the ages in many forms.
Don’t Let Cost Be Your Tooth’s Worst Enemy
Thankfully, you don’t have to rely on wool cloths or cloves to care for your teeth—and you don’t need dental insurance, either. We help dental practices create an in-house dental savings plan, giving your patients access to modern care at an affordable price. We make it easy for them to join and for you to manage. Ask us how!
