Cosmetic dentistry has come further than you might realize. Over the centuries, plenty of individuals have wanted to improve their smiles and used a wide range of methods to try and do so. If you’re thinking of pursuing cosmetic dentistry yourself, it can be beneficial to take the time to learn just how much the field has evolved over time. Below is a brief history of the various ways that people have tried to enhance their teeth.
Improving Smiles in Ancient Times
One early example of cosmetic dentistry comes from the Ancient Egyptians. They used to make special toothpaste out of pumice stone and vinegar that could help them get rid of dental stains. On top of that, they would also replace missing teeth with gold dental bridges as well as seashells inserted directly into the gums.
Meanwhile, the Ancient Romans had a rather unconventional approach to whitening teeth – namely, using their own urine. The ammonia in the urine could break apart the particles that made up tooth stains, thus resulting in a brighter smile.
Improving Smiles During Medieval Times
During the Middle Ages, dentistry was performed by barbers. They whitened teeth by filing them and applying a special coat of acid. However, this approach would often result in serious harm being done to the enamel of the tooth.
Additionally, many people would use dentures made out of bone and ivory in order to improve the appearance of their smiles. Unfortunately, these prostheses tended to be quite uncomfortable.
The Rise of Modern Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry as we know it today didn’t truly begin to take shape until the 20th century, which is when many popular smile-enhancing dental treatments were introduced:
- Veneers were first created in the 1930s as a way to help film stars temporarily cover their cosmetic dental flaws. Over time, veneers would develop into a more long-lasting solution for chipped, discolored, and misshapen teeth.
- Natural-looking tooth-colored fillings were invented in the 1950s, and they would grow more popular in the 1980s once a light system was developed to help harden them in place.
- In 1989, carbamide peroxide started being used as a bleaching agent that could effectively whiten teeth.
- Advancements in dental techniques and technology have also seen the rise of gum recontouring, a treatment where excessive gum tissue is removed to create a more balanced grin.
With so many different kinds of treatments available, modern cosmetic dentistry could be the key to creating the beautiful smile that you’ve always wanted. Reach out to your dentist today if you’re interested in learning about the cosmetic services they offer.
About the Practice
Here at Salmon Brook Dental Associates, we aim to meet our Granby patients’ many dental needs with our comprehensive menu of services. When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, we offer plenty of options, including veneers, teeth whitening, and gum recontouring. If you would like to schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation with our team, visit our website or call (860) 653-4551.