### 1 Ancient Egyptians thought cavities were caused by worms > Today, we know that plaque and bacteria cause a breakdown of the tooth’s enamel. In ancient Egypt, however, you would have been told you had a tooth worm. > > Your medic or dentist at the time — and [there is some evidence](https://www.historicmysteries.com/the-practice-of-medicine-and-dentistry-in-ancient-egypt/) that dentistry was a specialized profession — would think you had worms boring into your teeth because the holes caused by cavities look very similar to those caused by worms making their way through wood. - [[How Would Your Teeth Fare in Ancient Egypt#1 Ancient Egyptians thought cavities were caused by worms|View in Vault]]