Avicenna’s Dental Anatomy: Bridging Ancient Insights with Modern Knowledge

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Objective: This study examines Avicenna’s knowledge of dental anatomy and compares it with modern dental anatomy. The aim is to identify similarities and differences between ancient and contemporary understandings of dental structure. Materials and Methods: The original Arabic text of Canon of Medicine (القانون في الطب) and its English translation (1973, AMS Press) were used. Additionally, the Turkish translation of Tahbiz al-Mathun, a commentary on Canon by Tokadī Mustafa Efendi, was referenced. The dental anatomy sections from the first book and the basic anatomy of the mouth and tongue from the third book were analyzed, translated, and compared across the Arabic, English, and Turkish versions. Results: Despite some differences, Avicenna’s dental and oral anatomy descriptions largely align with modern knowledge. The sutures and structures of the jaw bones are similar, and Avicenna notes that teeth can sense temperature, a concept consistent with the contemporary understanding of dental nerves. However, his descriptions of the nerves and their functions do not fully match current anatomical knowledge. The arteries and veins of the mouth, as described by Avicenna, generally align with today’s anatomical understanding. Conclusion: The study reveals both agreement and discrepancies between Avicenna's dental anatomy and modern knowledge. While his insights into specific structures and functions are accurate, his explanations of nerve pathways and muscle anatomy require further clarification. This work emphasizes the importance of integrating ancient medical knowledge with modern scientific understanding, providing a foundation for future research in the history of medicine.