For centuries, the health of a person’s smile remained the primary focus for most dental professionals. Treating teeth for stains or other imperfections was not something many people sought to address; however, this doesn’t mean early individuals did not try to freshen their breath or brighten their teeth. Read on to find out just how far cosmetic dentistry has come so that you can appreciate how impactful it is today.
The Early Attempts of Cosmetic Dentistry
When looking back at the ways ancient civilizations addressed tooth stains and missing teeth, you can be thankful for the multitude of advancements that have occurred in the field of cosmetic dentistry.
For example, Ancient Romans used urine to remove tooth stains, while Ancient Egyptians relied on vinegar and pumice stone. It was also not uncommon for people to use seashells or other similar objects to replace missing teeth, some of which were hammered into the gums.
Even visiting a dentist was an uncommon occurrence, especially during Medieval Times when patients were told to see their barber for any oral healthcare needs. This was unsuccessful and even dangerous at times, as many of these professionals damaged teeth by filing them down and coating them in a substance that was supposedly designed to brighten smiles.
As time passed, the materials dentists used improved, but it wasn’t until the 20th century that the introduction of safer, more effective cosmetic solutions came to be.
What Kind of Advancements Are Still Used Today?
Decades of research have made it possible for dentists to enhance smiles using some of the most transformational solutions. In fact, some of these discoveries are still used in dental offices throughout the world today. Some of these include:
- Teeth Whitening – The use of carbamide peroxide in 1989 as a whitening agent was discovered by Dr. Haywood and Dr. Heymann. The solution makes it easier to eliminate stains both inside and outside the dental office – a factor that led to the creation of take-home whitening.
- Cosmetic Bonding – In the 1950s, white tooth-colored fillings were invented along with the etching technique used to hold it in place. By the 1980s, a more permanent bonding solution was created, which is still used today.
- Veneers – Although the veneers created in the 1930s were bulkier and not permanent, those developed in the 1980s consisted of a new bonding technique that is still used to help veneers remain firmly attached to teeth. Also, the veneers of today are much thinner and more natural in appearance.
- Dental Implants – Instead of relying on seashells, the first screw-like dental implant was created in the 1930s. With osseointegration being discovered in the 1950s, it became easier to further develop these tooth replacement solutions so that by the 1980s, they became marketable to the general public.
Thankfully, the days of vinegar, pumice stones, urine and barbers performing dental care are gone. Now, patients can enjoy more refined and effective cosmetic solutions that make a long-lasting impact.
About the Practice
At Universal Dental Group, we are pleased to have four dental experts on staff who put the health and beauty of all smiles first. By offering cosmetic solutions to help revitalize and enhance a patient’s appearance, we can produce results that lead to greater confidence. No matter if it’s veneers, teeth whitening, cosmetic bonding or another similar form of treatment, we encourage you to visit our website or call (508) 753-1911 to find out how we can help.