toothworms

Toothworms are a historical and folkloric concept describing a supposed parasite that inhabits human teeth and causes toothache and decay. The idea recurs in many cultures from ancient times into the early modern era, before the development of germ theory clarified the true causes of dental disease.

In medieval and early modern sources, toothworms were imagined as worm-like beings that bore into enamel or dentin and fed on the tooth pulp, provoking pain. People pursued various remedies, such as cleansing the mouth, applying herbal pastes, warming the area, or attempting to expel the worm; dental extraction or drilling was sometimes performed to remove the burden believed to be the worm.

Modern dentistry, based on germ theory and knowledge of bacteria, rejects the idea of a literal toothworm. Tooth decay is now understood to result from dental plaque bacteria and acidic byproducts; cavities are treated by cleaning, filling, and preventive care rather than expulsion of a worm.

In culture, toothworms are referenced in folklore and historical medical texts as an example of pre-scientific explanations for pain. They appear in some fantasy settings as literal creatures, illustrating how myths informed early attempts to understand illness and dental problems.