Have you ever wanted to change your smile? Well, historically speaking, you’re not alone. In fact, the concept of cosmetic dentistry has been around for centuries, meaning it’s safe to say at least some of your ancestors probably wanted a more gorgeous grin, too. Here’s a brief look at the incredible history of cosmetic dentistry and how improving the smile has changed over time!
Humble Beginnings
The first iterations of cosmetic dentistry began back in 700 BCE, when the Etruscans started using materials like ivory, bone, and even human teeth to create the world’s first known sets of dentures.
Ancient Egypt
Centuries ago in ancient Egypt, a beautiful smile was considered the ultimate status symbol. Thus, as a show of wealth, people would fashion seashells and gold into fake teeth. For those who still had their real teeth, they created primitive toothpastes made of vinegar and pumice. These of course did more harm than good, but they certainly weren’t as gross as what happened in ancient Rome, where people used urine as a mouthwash!
Medieval Era
Although there were still no official dentists in medieval times, barbers were the go-to guys for improving smiles. Unfortunately, if you know anything about barbering, there’s not a whole lot of oral healthcare involved, and it showed in their treatments. Barbers would care for the teeth by filing them down and then applying a topcoat that was supposed to make them look whiter. Unfortunately, however, all it did was destroy the enamel and cause rampant tooth loss!
The 1700s to 1800s
By the 1700s, dentists were using porcelain to craft dentures, and by the 1800s, early dental implant procedures were being performed with metal prosthetics replacing lost teeth. Although these early dental implants didn’t work, it did introduce porcelain restorations which are still in use for many different prosthetics. In fact, veneers, dentures, crowns, bridges and dental implants all still utilize this durable lifelike material today!
The 20th Century and Beyond
In the early 20th century, porcelain restorations were considered too expensive for most people, so dentists began using things like plastic and acrylic in dentures, which are also still used today. They even began experimenting with peroxide to whiten the teeth, and by the mid-1950s, lasers were being used in some dental treatments.
The 20th century also ushered in the widespread adoption of treatments like dental bonding, dental implants, and veneers.
Remember, while being frustrated with your smile may seem like a modern problem, the truth is, mankind has struggled with the pursuit of a gorgeous grin for centuries. The good news is that while your ancestors may not have had many options when it came to improving their appearance, today’s modern cosmetic dentistry treatments are safe, effective, and backed by hundreds of years of trial and error!
About Our Practice
At Wright Naeger Dentistry, our trio of talented dentists wants to give you the smile of your dreams! Thankfully, your early ancestors have taken much of the guesswork out of how to get the best results, and today, we’re proud to reap the rewards. To learn more about which treatments can help you achieve your smile goals and to get started on customizing the gorgeous, glowing grin of your dreams, schedule a consultation for cosmetic dentistry today by visiting our website or calling 979-776-4843.