Apollonia: History and Relationship with Dentistry
Who was Saint Apollonia?
Apollonia was a Christian martyr of the third century who lived in Alexandria, Egypt. According to historical accounts, during a persecution against Christians, she was captured and subjected to torture, including the violent extraction of her teeth. She was offered the opportunity to renounce her faith, but instead, she voluntarily threw herself into a bonfire.
Saint Apollonia and her relationship with dentistry
✔️ She is considered the patron saint of dentists and people suffering from dental pain
✔️ Her image appears in numerous dental clinics and dental schools
✔️ Miracles related to the healing of toothaches and dental diseases are attributed to her
Cult and artistic representations
🔹 Her feast day is celebrated on February 9
🔹 She is depicted holding a pair of pincers with a tooth, a symbol of her martyrdom
🔹 She is invoked in prayers by people suffering from dental problems
Conclusion
Saint Apollonia is a symbol of resistance and protection in dentistry. Her story has transcended centuries, becoming a revered figure by dentists and patients.
Legal Notice and Disclaimer
This article is part of ONAK's Dictionary of Medical Terms and is for informational purposes only.
Bibliography
- Baring-Gould, S. Lives of the Saints. John Hodges, 1877. Available at: https://archive.org/details/livesofsaints01bari
- Delehaye, H. Les légendes hagiographiques. 1927. Available at: https://gallica.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/bpt6k1154825
