1. A Different Era of Dentistry: The “Tooth Pullers”
In the past, going to the dentist was a very different experience than it is today. Instead of booking an appointment with a professional in a white coat, people relied on the “tooth puller” – a person who often doubled as a barber. These individuals had the dual role of cutting hair and extracting teeth, all with the same ease and confidence.
2. The Charlatans of the Town Square
These intrepid individuals were known as “charlatans,” and their makeshift dental offices were set up in the bustling town squares. The bigger the square, the happier they were to chat and show off their charisma, attracting unsuspecting passersby. The poorest members of society, like farmers and villagers, were especially vulnerable to their convincing sales pitches.
3. Grand Entrances: The Tooth Puller’s “Show”
The “tooth pullers” made their grand entrances in large, ornately decorated carriages, often drawn by several horses. Feathers, ribbons, and bells adorned the carriages to create a spectacle that shouted false wealth. Accompanied by their assistants, who played trumpets, drums, and cymbals, the entire operation felt like a circus.
4. The “Painless” Extraction: A Bold Claim
When it was time for the dental procedure, the “tooth pullers” would claim their extractions were painless – though the experience often felt far from it. As they advertised their services as “pain-free,” they cleverly masked any screams with the noise of their assistants’ instruments and the chaotic atmosphere, ensuring that the spectacle remained entertaining.
5. Surviving the Visit: Courage and Chaos
In the end, surviving a visit to the “tooth puller” required a mix of courage, a bit of theatrical performance, and a lot of noise. The entire experience was more of a show than a medical procedure, with people walking away with their teeth extracted and perhaps a memorable story of the day they visited the dentist in the square.
