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Managing Dental Pain in Ancient Greece and Rome. Part I
1Department of Molecular Pathobiology New York University College of Dentistry New York, NY.
Journal of the History of Dentistry
|August 12, 2026
Summary
Ancient Greek and Roman medicine primarily used conservative dental treatments, relying heavily on herbal remedies like Hyoscyamus and mandragora for pain and inflammation. Many of these botanical treatments remain relevant in modern dentistry.
Area of Science:
- Historical Medicine
- Ethnobotany
- Ancient Dentistry
Background:
- Herbal plants were integral to ancient healing practices.
- Evidence of ancient dental extractions is limited, with conservative methods prevailing.
- Major ancient medical texts provide insights into historical dental care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the use of herbal remedies in ancient Greek and Roman dentistry.
- To identify specific plants employed for dental ailments in antiquity.
- To trace the historical continuity of these herbal treatments.
Main Methods:
- Surveyed major medical works from ancient Greece and Rome.
- Analyzed texts by Celsus, Scribonius Largus, Dioscorides, Galen, Oribasius, and Aurelianus.
- Identified frequently mentioned plants used for dental conditions.
Main Results:
- Conservative approaches predominated in ancient dental practices.
- Numerous plants, including Hyoscyamus, mandragora, poppy, gall, pine, and pomegranate, were used for dental pain and gingival inflammation.
- These herbal remedies persisted through the medieval period.
Conclusions:
- Herbal medicine played a significant role in ancient dental care.
- Traditional botanical treatments for dental issues have a long historical lineage.
- Many ancient herbal remedies continue to find application in contemporary forms.
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