How It Began
There is evidence of people taking care of their teeth and even creating dentures as far back as 700 B.C.E. Dentures were typically made of bone and ivory – or sometimes the teeth of animals and other humans. In Ancient Egypt, people were even known to use seashells and tooth replacements hammered into the gums, and to use gold for creating dental bridges and crowns.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is another cosmetic dentistry procedure used in ancient times. The ancient Romans would sometimes use a toothpaste made from urine to clean their teeth, which incidentally also whitened them. As far back as 3000 B.C.E., people used chew sticks to clean and whiten their teeth. Modern bleaching methods using peroxide trays were developed in the 1980s when dentists discovered their gel gum treatments had the side effect of whitening the teeth – and a new era of dentistry was born.
Veneers
Veneers are thin shells often made of porcelain that are bonded to the front of the teeth. They were originally developed in the 1930s to improve the smiles of actors in Hollywood. These first veneers did not last long, and it took until 1982 for dental professionals to develop the more permanent bond used today.
Continue the Tradition Today
You can continue the tradition of cosmetic dentistry by scheduling a visit with Dr. Marko Kamel at Woodbury Dental Arts. Our staff will use modern techniques and you will see results much faster than the early days of cosmetic dental procedures. Contact our office
today to learn more.
