Discover the Evolution of Cosmetic Dentistry

Few people are born with naturally attractive smiles. Thankfully, you don’t need to live with less than perfect teeth. Cosmetic dentistry is a popular solution to improve the appearance of discoloration, chips, alignment problems, and many other common aesthetic concerns. Although you might believe it’s a relatively new dental profession, the history of cosmetic dentistry dates to 700 B.C.; however, it’s come a long way since ancient times. Here’s how cosmetic dentistry has evolved over the years to deliver the exceptional results you see today.

Early Cosmetic Dentistry

Historians have found evidence of dental treatments throughout many centuries. The Ancient Egyptians were among the first to practice tooth replacement. Seashells and other objects were hammered into the gums to treat tooth loss. They were also known to use a toothpaste made of pumice stone and vinegar. Although that might sound unusual, the Ancient Romans used their own urine to whiten their teeth.

During the Middle Ages, you wouldn’t visit a dentist to maintain a healthy smile. Instead, your barber would file your teeth and coat them with a material that destroyed the enamel. Europeans in the Middle Ages made dentures of bone or ivory while also testing new treatments on dead bodies to learn more about dentistry.

By the 1700s, dental care evolved significantly because porcelain was used for dentures. In the 1800s, the focus of cosmetic dentistry turned to placing metals in the sockets of missing teeth, leading the way for modern dental implants.

Exploring Modern Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry began to flourish in the 20^th century. Several treatments became available to make the teeth look attractive using natural-looking solutions, like fillings and veneers. Several innovations over the years now provide a multitude of options to achieve the exact smile you want, such as:

• Porcelain Veneers: Porcelain has allowed veneers to be thinner than ever, so more of the tooth’s structure is maintained during the bonding process.
• Teeth Whitening: Specially formulated whitening agents don’t damage the enamel while getting the teeth as much as 8 shades brighter.
• Six Months Smiles: Clear aligners provide a nearly invisible orthodontic treatment that can be completed in just 6 months.
• Invisalign: Clear aligners are the ideal alternative to brackets and wires when used to correct a variety of bite and alignment issues.

Although cosmetic dentistry is not a recognized specialty, many dentists complete extensive training in the field to become experts in aesthetics. They undergo continuing education to offer advanced services, like veneers, Invisalign, and dental implants.

Improve Your Smile Today

You have more options than ever to achieve your picture-perfect smile. You can benefit from the latest innovations in dentistry to achieve the drastic, natural-looking results you deserve.

About Dr. Dana C. Jones

Dr. Jones earned his dental degree at the University of Buffalo School of Dental Medicine and continued his training at the Dawson Center and the Las Vegas Institute. He is a reputable cosmetic dentist in Ridgefield for exceptional care. If you’re ready to invest in an attractive smile, contact our office today to schedule your consultation.