Meyer L. Rhein and Mortarization - Controlling the Root Apex During Focal Infection

Many stalwarts in the dental profession stood out during the conflagrations of the Focal Infection Era 100 years ago, in an attempt to prevent the wholesale extraction of teeth. One of these individuals, Dr. Meyer L. Rhein, both a physician and dentists often scolded the dental profession for their proclivity in disregarding the biological basis for root canal treatment. His understanding and management of the apical root anatomy challenges did not go unnoticed as he fought to retain teeth regardless of the status of the dental pulp and surrounding supportive structures.