"Tooth Worms" Blamed for Cavities in 18th Century Sculpture
An ivory sculpture from the 18th century called "The Tooth Worm as Hell's Demon" depicts the old belief that tooth worms caused toothache and decay. The sculpture shows two hollow tooth halves, each with a spooky scene inside. The idea of tooth worms was based on the belief that worms could make their way inside teeth, causing decay. The sculpture shows the torment of a toothache equated with the fires of hell.