In the past, going to the dentist was about addressing dental issues and getting essential treatment. While this is still the number one priority for your dental provider, elective procedures that are focused on aesthetics of the teeth have been becoming more popular. However, just because people’s interest in the area of aesthetic dentistry has grown doesn’t mean that it’s a new thing. In fact, cosmetic dentistry has been around since ancient times! Continue reading to learn more about how it evolved through the years.
Ancient Cosmetic Dentistry
As far back as 700 B.C., the Etruscans attempted to replace teeth from a variety of materials. Most of the time dentures were made from ivory and bone. Sometimes, they would use animal teeth or the teeth of deceased humans. Ancient Egyptians would sometimes use seashells as a way to replace their missing teeth. They would also made crowns and bridges using gold. As for teeth whitening, the Ancient Romans would use urine because of its ammonia content. Fortunately, we have much better teeth whitening methods these days.
Dentistry in the Middle Ages
Back in medieval times, dentistry was the job of a barber. They would file down teeth and use a special coat to make them whiter. However, this would eventually destroy the tooth’s protective enamel, and ultimately the tooth itself. During this time, Europeans would continue to use bone and ivory in order replace missing teeth.
Aesthetic Dentistry During the Enlightenment
Starting in the 1700s, cosmetic dentistry was improving dramatically. This is when they started using porcelain for dentures. At this time, dentists would attempt to use metals to fill the sockets of missing teeth, but the body would reject it. Porcelain teeth were becoming increasingly popular during this time.
20th Century Cosmetic Dentistry
At the beginning of the 1900s, the materials used for cosmetic dental treatments were beginning to change. Because porcelain was not very affordable, the dental industry turned to more economical materials, like plastics and acrylics, to create crowns and dentures. In fact, acrylic is still used today to make dentures.
Modern Cosmetic Dentistry
While cosmetic dentistry has been around for quite a while, it really started booming throughout the 20th century until now. There has been more of a focus on enhancing beautiful, natural-looking teeth. Popular techniques include teeth whitening, dental veneers, fillings, and tooth implants. It wasn’t until the 1930s that veneers were invented to be used by film stars. In 1937, the first screw dental implant was created. There are all sorts of new techniques and technologies, and they are improving every single year!
Cosmetic dentistry has come a long way in the last millennia, and it isn’t going to stop. Now that people are valuing the power of a beautiful smile as well as taking home more disposable income, the industry should be booming for quite some time.
About the Author
Dr. Sujal Patel earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from New York University and is committed to continuing education in order to keep his knowledge and skills sharp. He is a proud member of both the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association. For more information on cosmetic dentistry or to schedule an appointment at his office in Dallas, visit his website or call (972) 818-5649.