Tandmeesters veroveren de medische markt: Irreguliere kennisproductie in de achttiende-eeuwse Republiek

Abstract

This articles deals with professionalisation processes in the eighteenth century Dutch medical market. In this increasingly competitive and commercial market, tooth masters acquired a prominent position from the 1730s onwards. Eventually, many of these medical specialists did not have any protective institution such as a guild behind them, and were therefore often considered as ‘quacks’ or travelling healers. Their position became stronger however, because they treated patients and ailments that physicians and surgeons often did not know how to deal with or whose treatment was considered too risky. Furthermore, dentistry received a scientific boost, partly due to the pioneering work of the French surgeon-dentist Pierre Fauchard. Another stimulating factor was that healthy and white teeth became a status symbol in social intercourse. The professionalisation of dentistry manifested itself in increasing specialisation, strong family networks, accumulation of knowledge and skills, administrative protection and assertive media campaigns.