{"id":463,"date":"2024-12-17T15:01:58","date_gmt":"2024-12-17T15:01:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pcdentistry.com\/blog\/?p=463"},"modified":"2025-02-03T15:03:58","modified_gmt":"2025-02-03T15:03:58","slug":"cosmetic-dentistry-how-far-has-it-come","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pcdentistry.com\/blog\/cosmetic-dentistry-how-far-has-it-come\/","title":{"rendered":"From Then to Now: How Cosmetic Dentistry Has Changed"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Cosmetic dentistry<\/a> consists of many different treatment options, all of which are meant to improve and revitalize a person\u2019s facial appearance. Although it might seem as if teeth whitening, veneers, and even gum recontouring are \u201cnew,\u201d these smile-enhancing solutions got their start centuries ago. Keep reading to discover just how far cosmetic dentistry has come.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

When Was the First Known Use of Cosmetic Dentistry?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you were to go back to 700 B.C., you wouldn\u2019t find high-powered bleaching gel that we commonly use to remove tooth stains. Instead, you would find Ancient Egyptians using pumice stone and vinegar to create a paste.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ancient Romans took it one step further by using their urine to clean their teeth and remove surface stains. Although it sounds odd and disgusting in today\u2019s time, it was believed the ammonia helped break down discoloration, leaving teeth whiter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Did Cosmetic Dentistry Evolve?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With the arrival of the Middle Ages, many barbers took on the role of not only cutting hair but also performing dentistry. Using a particular coat to whiten teeth, it was found that the product damaged the enamel and actually led to the destruction of these \u201cpearly whites.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Europeans also used bone or ivory when crafting dentures to replace missing teeth; however, they proved uncomfortable to wear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

By the time of the Enlightenment (1700-1800s), cosmetic dentistry included the use of metal for replacing missing teeth as well as porcelain restorations and plaster to make more comfortable dentures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cosmetic Dentistry and the 20th<\/sup> Century<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Making the switch from porcelain to acrylic was one of the most notable advancements in cosmetic dentistry, specifically when making dentures. Viewed as more economical, they remain a popular material that is still used by dentists today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other changes that occurred more recently include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n