The Principles and Practice of Dental Surgery Harris, Chapin Medicine

A foundational 19th-century work in American dentistry, authored by Chapin Aaron Harris (1806â "1860), one of the key figures in establishing dentistry as a recognized medical profession and a co-founder of the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery (the worldâ s first dental school, established 1840). This second edition (1845) is substantially expanded from the 1839 first edition, with added sections on oral pathology, mechanical prosthetics, tooth irregularities, and early orthodontic theory. The book integrates anatomy, physiology, and operative technique, forming the pedagogical foundation of dental education for decades. Its chapters on â Abrasion of the Edges of the Teeth,â â Treatment of Irregularity,â and â Filling the Teethâ reflect the most advanced clinical understanding of mid-19th-century dentistry, while its numerous detailed wood engravingsâ "particularly of dental anatomy and alignmentâ "enhance its instructional value. Of particular note, this copy bears a presentation inscription in the authorâ s hand: â To the Editor of the London ________, with the respects of the author.â Such authorial inscriptions from Harris are scarce, and association copies are prized given his pivotal role in American dental history. Illustrated with sixty-nine wood engravings, this work stands among the earliest comprehensive dental surgery manuals in English and a direct forerunner to the textbooks that standardized the dental curriculum in the United States and abroad. Condition & Binding:ÂBound in the original full calf leather, spine with simple gilt rules in five compartments, faint remains of the gilt title visible, marbled endpapers and edges. The leather shows age-appropriate wear, scuffing, and dryness, with moderate rubbing to boards and some chipping to spine ends, particularly at the head. Joints remain sound though tender. Interior generally clean and complete, with moderate foxing throughout, light marginal toning, and scattered small stains. Presentation inscription on the front flyleaf as noted. Overall- good.