A History of Dentistry from the Most Ancient Times Until the End of the Eighteenth Century

A historical account written in the early 20th century. The work delves into the development of dental practices and knowledge across different civilizations, tracing its roots from ancient eras through to the 18th century. The book aims to compile comprehensive information on the evolution of dentistry, based on thorough research and primary sources, offering a detailed view of this specialized field. The opening of the book introduces the author's motivations for writing a complete history of dentistry and outlines the structure of the work. Dr. Guerini conveys his commitment to providing a thorough narrative that incorporates both historical data and his personal research efforts, which he began after participating in the Eleventh International Congress of Medicine. He expresses the importance of documenting the advancements in dental science, likening its historical significance to that of medicine as a whole. The initial chapters promise a rich exploration of the practices among ancient peoples, including Egyptians, Hebrews, and Chinese, setting the groundwork for understanding how dentistry was perceived and developed over thousands of years.