The history of dental fillings parallels the history of modern dentistry. As dentistry evolved to include more sophisticated diagnostic and treatment methods, so did dental filling options. Today’s dentists offer a range of dental filling materials that work differently depending on the teeth and the patient’s needs.
People are often surprised to learn the modern filling has origins dating back as far as 201 AD. The American Dental Education Association describes dentistry as one of the oldest medical professions. Despite its ancient origins many people could not afford to see a dental professional. Until relatively recently, many people would visit barbers for tooth extractions in addition to hair care. As a result, people sometimes overlook dentistry’s rich history.
