Today, dentures are known for their lifelike look, and when combined with dental implants, lifelike feel and function, too. However, they weren’t always as sleek and natural-looking as they are today. The concept of dentures dates all the way back to around 700 BC, which many people don’t realize! Here’s how they have evolved throughout the years into what they are now, when hand-crafted by a dental laboratory using the latest technology.
The First & Early Concepts of Dentures
Dentures were estimated to first be conceptualized by ancient people back in 700 BC. In Northern Italy, people tied together human or animal teeth with gold wires that they could wear to make it appear like they have a full set of teeth. However, they were strictly designed for cosmetic purposes, unlike modern dentures.
The earliest version of a complete set of dentures, which were also a little more sturdy, were ones made out of wood in 16th century Japan. This technique was actually used to create dentures up until around the 19th century.
Modern Dentures of the 19th and 20th Century
In the 1800s in Europe, inventions of new candies were at an all-time high, with the trend eventually carrying across the pond to the Americas in the mid-1800s. Hershey’s chocolate bars, Wrigley’s gums, lollipops, and the iconic Necco Wafer were being purchased at general stores across the world as a sweet indulgent treat. With the emergence of these iconic candies came a lot of cavities and even more tooth loss.
Alongside this moment in history, teeth were being harvested and sold from dead soldiers and even poor people to replace those lost by the elite in the form of dentures. And later in the 19th century, teeth made from materials like porcelain, gold, and silver began being produced to allow for a more efficient and convenient means of replacing lost teeth.
Leading-Edge Implant Dentures
One of the latest dental inventions used to restore smiles that revolutionized the idea of dentures is dental implants. These are small titanium posts that are surgically placed below the gumline and within the jawbone to create a durable, unwavering foundation for custom porcelain and acrylic dentures to be attached to. The results feel and function more natural than ever before, providing patients with almost all of their original chewing power and even more confidence than traditional dentures of the past.
From the solely cosmetic dentures of 700 BC to the state-of-the-art function and appearance of modern implant dentures, the process of restoring missing teeth has come a long way. To learn how many options are available to you to help you regain a full and beautiful smile again, schedule a consultation with your dentist!
About the Author
Dr. Arrechea has over 20 years of experience and is deeply committed to providing her patients with high-quality, outstanding dental care and results. With experience working in private practice as well as dental laboratories, she’s deeply knowledgeable when it comes to creating beautiful replacement teeth, whether that’s in the form of traditional dentures or implant dentures. To schedule a consultation and learn more about your tooth replacement options, visit Daily Smiles Dental Dallas’ website or call 214-624-6221.