With technology rapidly advancing, people all over the world are turning to cosmetic dentistry to help improve their appearance. With immediate access to talk to and “influence” others across the globe, a person’s smile is a valuable asset – one that can make a good or bad first impression. But while today’s innovations leave the idea that veneers, teeth whitening, and other similar services are something new, they’re not. In fact, their origins date back thousands of years. Keep reading to find out where it all started.
How Cosmetic Dentistry Became a Popular Dental Choice
Although cosmetic dentistry is more popular today than it was 10 or 20 years ago, its array of services are not new to dental offices around the world.
The Ancient Era
The first known form of cosmetic dentistry was used by the Etruscans in 700 B.C. They created dentures using ivory and bone.
Later, the Egyptians made dental crowns and bridges out of gold while also turning to seashells to craft replacement teeth. But restoring smiles wasn’t all they did. These early civilizations created a special toothpaste made of pumice stone and vinegar to remove stains.
But the Etruscans and Egyptians weren’t the only ones eager to try their hand at cosmetic dentistry. Ancient Romans also developed a way to eliminate stains. Using their own urine, the ammonia helped to brighten teeth.
The Medieval Era
While we might think of dentistry as a separate occupation, during Medieval Times, it often fell to local barbers to address patients’ smile problems.
This meant unique solutions were developed to whiten teeth, such as filing them down and using a specialized coating substance that ultimately damaged the enamel and tooth structure.
The Enlightenment Era
By the time of the 1700s and 1800s, dentistry was becoming a more popular and widely known profession, which meant that cosmetic services were being improved upon by experts in the field. Although the materials used were somewhat different back then, one commonality is that porcelain became the predominant resource for dentures – something dentists continue to use today.
The Era of Modern Times
With the arrival of the 20th century, additional materials came on the scene, including acrylic and plastic. With most dentures being crafted from acrylic these days, patients are now able to enjoy a more durable prosthetic that looks natural and feels comfortable – a far cry from those created using ivory and bone.
The 1980s saw a drastic shift in the world of cosmetic dentistry, as modern advancements saw the creation of:
- Carbamide peroxide was introduced as an effective way to whiten smiles not only in the dentist’s office but at home, too.
- Composite fillings and permanent bonding provided an alternative option for patients with decayed teeth or minor damage.
- Dental veneers were bonded to natural teeth with a special dental adhesive.
- Dental implants were finally marketed to the public after osseointegration, the fusing of the bone with the implant, was discovered in the 1950s.
With new innovations and techniques occurring each day in the dental world, it’s unknown what cosmetic dentistry will look like 10, 20, or even 30 years from now. But one thing is certain – the demand for these services will certainly continue.
About Grand Dental – Naperville
At Grand Dental – Naperville, cosmetic dentistry is one of the most popular types of treatment offered. With patients looking to enhance their appearances, we offer an array of services that help boost confidence, conceal imperfections, and deliver one-of-a-kind, long-lasting results. If you are interested in learning more about the treatment options we provide, visit our website or call us at (630) 576-9970.