Medieval people had very limited options for dental care compared to today’s standards. The practice of dentistry in the Middle Ages was rudimentary at best, with no knowledge of modern techniques like fillings, root canals, or even effective pain management. However, medieval people did attempt various remedies to manage dental problems.

1. Tooth Extraction:
One of the most common dental procedures in the Middle Ages was tooth extraction. If a person had a painful tooth, it was often simply removed. Blacksmiths, barbers, and even herbalists would perform these extractions, sometimes using rudimentary tools like pliers or forceps. The procedure was painful, and the risk of infection was high due to the lack of sterilization.

2. Herbal Remedies:
Various herbs and concoctions were used to alleviate tooth pain and treat infections. Some common medieval remedies included chewing on cloves, which have antiseptic properties, or using mixtures of vinegar, wine, and herbs to rinse the mouth. While these remedies might have provided temporary relief, they were far from effective in preventing or curing tooth decay.

3. Amputations and Extractions by Barbers:
Medieval barbers performed more than just haircuts and shaves; they also acted as surgeons and dentists. The “barber-surgeons” of the time were tasked with extracting teeth, especially in cases of severe infection or damage. These extractions were often performed without anesthesia, making them incredibly painful.

4. Primitive Fillings:
Some medieval cultures experimented with filling cavities, though these early fillings were rudimentary and ineffective by modern standards. Materials like beeswax, resin, and even ground-up minerals were sometimes used to fill holes in decayed teeth, but these methods had limited success in stopping decay. shutdown123