Dentistry used to mostly address oral health issues and provide essential care. This is still the top priority of dentists today, but elective procedures have become increasingly popular in the last few decades. That being said, cosmetic dentistry is nothing new. It actually goes back thousands of years! Read on to learn more about the history of cosmetic dentistry and how it has evolved through the years.
Ancient Cosmetic Dentistry
Going all the way back to 700 B.C., the Etruscans, who lived in modern-day Italy, attempted to replace teeth with a variety of materials. In most cases, dentures were constructed from materials like bone and ivory. They would also use animal teeth or teeth from deceased humans. The Ancient Egyptians would use seashells as a way to replace their missing teeth. Crowns and bridges were made using gold. As for teeth whitening, the Ancient Romans would use urine because of the ammonia that was present – eww! Thanks to modern dental technology, we have much more effective and less revolting teeth whitening methods now.
Medieval Cosmetic Dentistry
Dental procedures were completed by a barber back in the Middle Ages. They would file down teeth and use a special coat to make them look whiter. The issue is that this destroys the enamel of the teeth, wearing them down, and eventually causing tooth loss. Europeans continued to use bone and ivory to replace their missing teeth.
Cosmetic Dentistry of the Enlightenment
Cosmetic dentistry began to take a positive turn in the 1700s. This is when porcelain became a popular material for creating dentures. Dentists would still use metal to fill the sockets of missing teeth, but the body would reject it. Porcelain teeth were becoming much more common than before.
20th Century Cosmetic Dentistry
Beginning in the 1900s, the materials used for cosmetic treatments started to evolve. Porcelain wasn’t the most affordable material on the market, so plastics and acrylics were used to make crowns and dentures. Acrylic is still used today for some dental restorations. In the 1930s, veneers were first created to be used by film stars in movies. In 1937, the first screw-like dental implant was created.
Modern Aesthetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry has been around for a long time, and it is much more advanced and popular now than ever before. There is a lot of focus on enhancing the natural appearance of beautiful teeth. Popular techniques include teeth whitening, veneers, bonding, dental implants, and more. New techniques and technologies are still being developed today.
The bustling world of cosmetic dentistry isn’t slowing down anytime soon. It has progressed such a long way. To learn more about cosmetic services and how they can benefit you, schedule a consultation with your dentist. You deserve to show off a smile that makes you feel confident!
About the Author
Dr. Keyvan Kar is an experienced dentist and prosthodontist serving the Allen community. He first earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the University of Cologne School of Dentistry in Germany. A few years later, he received his Certificate of Advanced Education in Prosthodontics from the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry at the University of Southern California. He offers a wide range of cosmetic services at his practice. To learn more about cosmetic dentistry or to schedule a consultation, visit his website or call (214) 260-9911.