Tooth loss is as old as time – and, believe it or not, dentures practically are too. People have been working to replace missing teeth for ages, and it’s perhaps unsurprising that modern methods have evolved quite a bit since their initial iterations. Keep reading to learn about the surprisingly interesting history and evolution of dentures.
The First Dentures – Animal Teeth and Wood, Oh My
Archeological evidence has been found to show that Ancient Egyptians and Etruscans in Italy used a version of dentures made of human and animal teeth. The Japanese replaced missing teeth using wood and suction similar to today’s dentures. They also made impressions of teeth using beeswax, which aided in the creation of the denture. Interestingly, the Japanese were using wood dentures as recently as the last century.
These early iterations may have provided some support for chewing and speaking, but they were not likely to be comfortable or offer the kind of stability of the dentures that would come later.
Then Came the Creation of “Modern” Dentures
In the 1700s, a French physician credited with being the “father of modern dentistry,” Pierre Fauchard, created a denture made of teeth crafted from animal bone attached to a wireframe. While it may seem less than exciting by today’s standards, this represented a true advancement in tooth replacement. Porcelain teeth were crafted and patented a few decades later, offering a more attractive appearance that was easier to source as well (no wild game hunting required).
In 1850, it was discovered that dentures could be made from vulcanite, a durable rubber – offering even more comfort for the patient. Vulcanite dentures were popular up until the middle of the last century when they were replaced by more modern plastics.
Why Today’s Dentures Are So Successful
Dentures have come a long way – today’s options are a far cry from animal bone attached to wood. Fortunately, a durable and comfortable type of acrylic resin supports modern dentures and closely matches the appearance of your natural gum tissue. The replacement teeth themselves are easily customizable to look completely natural.
When supported by dental implants, dentures are especially successful and can give you back the life you had before you lost teeth. That’s because dental implants give you back a missing tooth’s root as well as the visible crown, providing unmatched stability and a natural feel.
If you are already missing or are on the verge of losing multiple teeth, you can take comfort that dentures have been advancing practically since the dawn of time. Your tooth replacement will be comfortable, natural-looking, and won’t involve animal teeth at all!
Meet the Dentists
Dr. Matthew Scoles, Dr. Marc Scoles, and Dr. Julia Karpman of Dental Essentials offer just that: everything you need for healthy, beautiful teeth that will last you a lifetime. With decades of combined experience, this team works together to offer comprehensive care that will help you regain your smile even after significant tooth loss. To learn more about your options in dentures in Rocky Hill or to book an appointment, give their practice a call at (860) 563-3766.