The desire for an attractive smile is something that you and your ancestors likely shared. While you have modern cosmetic dentistry, they had their own methods to get the gorgeous grin they’ve always wanted. You might be a bit curious about what they did, but they helped pave the way for the safe, effective treatments available today. Here’s a look at how far these services have come.
Ancient Ways to Beautify Smiles
Going back to 700 B.C., the Etruscans would make dentures with bones, ivory, or even human or animal teeth. Ancient Egyptians would use seashells instead or make bridges and crowns from gold. This group would also brighten their teeth with a mixture of vinegar and pumice. However, this was very abrasive and often harmed enamel. To get rid of stains, the Romans had another approach, which was urine! While gross, it actually did work because it has ammonium.
Medieval Methods for a Whiter Smile
Dentistry as a whole in the Middle Ages was still rocky. In fact, your barber and dentist were the same person, so you’d get a haircut and dental care from the same person. Have you ever noticed that the chairs for both professionals are similar in modern times? This might be why!
Cosmetic treatments, though, were still not very reliable. For instance, discoloration would be treated by coating the tooth with acid and filing down the enamel. This damaged the outer layer of the structure and possibly the entire thing as well.
Rise of Modern Cosmetic Dentistry
It wasn’t until the 1700s that cosmetic dentistry began to morph into its modern versions. While dentures aren’t technically a restorative service, porcelain was used for the teeth as it can look lifelike. Acrylic was used as the base in the 1900s, helping make this prosthetic customized per patient. Both materials are still used today!
In the 1930s, veneers were invented and eventually became a long-lasting solution to flaws in the 1980s. Teeth whitening got a much-needed upgrade with carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. These helped break down stains effectively without being gross!
You can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that older ways to get an aesthetic smile are no longer practiced. Your modern dentist uses high-quality and safe options that leave you feeling more confident.
About the Practice
Want to transform your smile? Our team at United Dental Centers of Hammond is dedicated to helping the local community get the gorgeous grin they dream of with reliable cosmetic dental treatments. Led by skilled dentists, they will personalize the services you need; that way, you get the results you want without any worry. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call our office at 219-933-4900.