Going back a several decades, going to the dentist was more focused on addressing oral health issues and getting essential care. While this is still the number one priority of dentists today, elective procedures are becoming increasingly popular. However, cosmetic dentistry isn’t new. It actually goes back thousands of yours. Continue reading to learn more about the history of cosmetic dentistry and how it became what it is today.
Cosmetic Dentistry in Ancient Times
It you go all the way back to 700 B.C., the Etruscans attempted to replace teeth from a variety of different materials. Most of the time, dentures were constructed from materials like bone and ivory. They would also use animal teeth or teeth from deceased humans. Ancient Egyptians would use seashells as a way to replace their missing teeth. Crowns and bridges could be made using gold. As for teeth whitening, Ancient Romans would use urine because of the ammonia that was present – yuck! Thanks to modern dental technology, we have much more effective (and less gross) teeth whitening methods today.
Cosmetic Dentistry in the Middle Ages
Dentistry was done by a barber back in the Middle Ages. They would file down teeth and use a special coat to make them appear whiter. The problem is that this would destroy the enamel of the teeth, wear them down, and eventually cause tooth loss. Europeans continued to use bone and ivory to replace their missing teeth.
Aesthetic Dentistry in the Enlightenment
Cosmetic dentistry really began to improve in the 1700s. This is when porcelain became a popular material to make dentures. Dentists would still use metal to fill the sockets of missing teeth, but the body would reject it. Porcelain teeth were becoming increasingly more common than before.
Cosmetic Dentistry in the 20th Century
Starting in the 1900s, the materials used for cosmetic dental treatments began to change. 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 dental restorations. In the 1930s, veneers were invented 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 while, but it is more advanced and popular than ever before. There is a lot of focus on enhancing the appearance of beautiful teeth. Popular techniques include teeth whitening, veneers, fillings, dental implants, and much more. New techniques and technologies are still being developed every year!
Cosmetic dentistry won’t be slowing down anytime soon. After all, it has progressed such a long way! If you want to learn how cosmetic dentistry may benefit you, schedule a visit with your dentist. This way, you can work towards the smile of your dreams!
About the Practice
At Tylan Creek Family Dentistry, we have a team of six skilled dentists eager to provide patients with a personalized, quality dental experience. With their combined expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need at one of our three convenient locations. To learn more about your cosmetic treatment options or to schedule a consultation, visit our website or call (864) 962-6671.