Saint Apollonia is a Christian martyr and patron saint of dentists and people suffering from toothache or other oral ailments. She lived in Alexandria, Egypt, in the 3rd century AD, during the intense persecution of Christians by the Roman Empire under Emperor Decius. At a time when medicine was powerless against disease, pain and suffering, turning to saints for help was an important part of religious and emotional support for many people.

Key words: Saint Apollonia, patron saint of dentists, cult of martyr saints, icons and sculptures.