Dentists at war: 12 who went beyond the call of duty. Military dentistry through the ages

An untreated dental problem can incapacitate even the strongest among us. Military leaders have recognized for centuries that keeping their troops in fighting shape meant providing basic medical and needs. In his 2020 book, Dentists at War, orthodontist historian Norman Wahl reviews history of military dentistry presents short biographies 12 dentists who served went above beyond call duty. cites a publication from 1492 titled Book Wound Surgery, treatise on surgery, as perhaps first its kind. It included section managing wounds to mouth, author, Hieronymus Brunschwig, devised chin support stabilizing broken jaw. France was leader dentistry, including care, many centuries, by mid-1800s, instruments were surgical chests British Armed Forces. But priorities different new world, where American president, George Washington, famously edentulous. When opening shots fired Civil United States had about 5,000 only 3 schools. The Union Army rejected recruits because problems did not provide toothbrushes soldiers they accept. finally began change 1901, when U.S. Dental Corp established. Other branches soon followed suit. progress care provided members military, cases prisoners war well, 2 World Wars Korea, Viet Nam, Gulf, more. Chapter VIII, he shifts general particular dozen during War I or II For most, this routine emergency but also entailed acts bravery heroism scope responsibilities. amazing stories some these men been previously documented, such Coenraad F.A. Moorrees Robert Edison Moyers. others overlooked lost until now. Varaztad H. Kazanjian immigrated 1895, know English no money few skills. worked hard learned quickly 1905 earned Doctor Medicine degree Harvard University. During I, 1 working hospital France, treated sustained horrific facial injuries trench warfare. His work innovative heroic performed under most challenging conditions, became known “Miracle Man Western Front.” Alexander G. Lyle, officer Navy received Medal Honor administering aid wounded soldier—saving life—while both attack. all are immensely interesting well told. book is properly with references each chapter helpful index end. Several photographs reproduced black white.