The Age-Old Practices of Improving Smiles!

Do you often look in the mirror and wish to improve your smile in some way? If so, you are not alone. A survey by OnePoll found that almost 60% of people would like to change something about their teeth. The interesting thing is this is not just a phenomenon of modern times; people as far back as ancient times were inventing ways to make their pearly whites more beautiful! Read on to learn how far cosmetic dentistry has come over the centuries, as well as current treatments to upgrade your grin.<

How Did Ancient Times Improve Smiles?

There were many innovative ways in ancient days to restore and improve teeth. In 700 B.C., ivory and animal bones were used to replace missing teeth as a crude denture. Cosmetic dentistry was widely used in Ancient Egypt, by using gold to make dental crowns and bridges. They would even use seashells as a tooth loss solution. The Ancient Romans were attempting to whiten their teeth—with urine! The ammonia was said to remove stains and give a luminous smile. Fortunately, there are now better ways to brighten your smile!

Medieval Dentistry

Dentistry was not yet an established practice during the Middle Ages. Barbers were often also performing dental treatments and procedures. They would whiten teeth with a salt crystal paste, which did not quite do the job. The concoction would actually damage the enamel and damage teeth in the long run.

Advancements in the Age of Enlightenment

By the beginning of the 1700s, porcelain was gaining popularity in cosmetic dentistry. However, this didn’t stop old practices of restoring teeth with metals. This ultimately proved unsuccessful—the body would eventually reject the metal.

How Does Modern Dentistry Improve Smiles?

By the 1990s, porcelain, plastics, and acrylics were beginning to be consistently utilized in enhancing smiles.  Cosmetic dentistry really began to make an indelible mark on society. Additionally, dental lasers and using dental-grade peroxide for bleaching teeth were making drastic improvements. The following are some common cosmetic dental treatments successfully and conveniently used:

• Professional teeth whitening: With both in-office
  and at-home treatments available, professional whitening gel can take years off
  your smile and brighten it up to eight shades!
• Veneers: By adhering ultra-thin sheaths
  of dental-grade porcelain to the front-facing surfaces of teeth, they can easily
  cover a range of dental flaws and last as long as 20 years.
• Cosmetic bonding: If you have minor
  issues with your teeth, such as chips, cracking, or staining, your dentist can perfectly
  sculpt a tooth-colored resin over the flawed tooth to reshape and contour your smile.

Cosmetic dental treatments are no longer archaic and harmful to your teeth. By visiting your dentist, you can explore which modern option is best for you to help you achieve the smile of your dreams!  

About the Author

Dr. Nicholas Mueller (just call him Dr. Nick!) earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of Minnesota and his dental doctorate at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. He is a current, active member of the American Dental Association, Chicago Dental Society, Wisconsin Dental Association, and the International Association of Orthodontics. To schedule a consultation for cosmetic dentistry at Shorewood Family Dentistry, visit our website or call us today at 414-332-8150.