A beautiful smile has always been linked with confidence; however, achieving said smile isn’t always a straightforward task. Thankfully, cosmetic dentistry can usually help patients achieve all of their smile goals. But you may be surprised to learn that the field of cosmetic dentistry isn’t new by any means; over time, these services have developed and improved to the point where even the most unhappy smile can be made to look its best. Here’s a brief look at how cosmetic dentistry has changed throughout the years and what it may be able to do for your pearly whites!
The History of Cosmetic Dentistry
Many ancient civilizations were actually surprisingly adept and inventive when it came to dentistry, especially when you consider the technology and the information they had access to. One example is the Etruscans, as far back as 700 BC, who crafted dental bridges and crowns from ivory or bone.
The Ancient Egyptians also had their own methods, relying on gold, seashells, and other interesting materials to replace and enhance the appearance of teeth. They even made toothpaste out of pumice stone and vinegar. The Ancient Romans took a fairly different approach, relying on their own urine to remove stains from teeth. According to other historians, it was used more often as a mouthwash, but the point stands—ingenuity at its finest!
Medieval dentistry was usually carried out by barbers, and their methods weren’t exactly beneficial for long-term oral health since they’d often file down teeth and destroy the enamel. However, by the mid-20th century, dentistry began to shift more toward aesthetics, with porcelain entering the mix as an excellent material due to its natural look and durability. By the 1980s, dental implants had also become mainstream due to their impressive benefits and beautiful appearance.
Cosmetic Dentistry Today
Fast forward to today, and cosmetic dentistry is now faster, safer, and more effective than ever before. Gone are the days of fillings and replacement teeth made from odd materials, and now, modern composite resins and other tooth-colored materials can be used to match the strength, look, and feel of your enamel. Similarly, digital technology has revolutionized all aspects of cosmetic dentistry, from treatment planning and 3D scanning to computer-aided design that leads to flawless restorations.
Thanks to continual advancements in materials, dental technology, and techniques, as well as the unyielding inventiveness of the human spirit, cosmetic dentistry has come a long way—and it should only continue to improve as more people become invested in their smiles!
About the Practice
Here at Zhang Dental Group of Tustin, Dr. Michael Zhang and our talented team have proudly served the needs of patients and families in Tustin, CA, and the surrounding communities. We offer a wide variety of services, including numerous cosmetic dentistry solutions using only the finest materials and most up-to-date techniques, ensuring results that you’ll feel proud to show off. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with our team to set up an appointment, please feel free to contact us online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (714) 465-5589.