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The Evolution of Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry

April 27, 2021

Filed under: Uncategorized — drpettigrew @ 6:20 pm
dentist preparing patient for cosmetic dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is nothing new. In fact, some form of it has been around since as far back as 700 B.C.! While the methods were obviously archaic, it’s still very interesting to see how far the technology and products have come since then. Keep reading to learn a brief history of cosmetic dentistry and why you can be thankful for the advancements that have been made.

Early Vs. Modern Cosmetic Dentistry

You might be a bit alarmed by some of the ways that cosmetic dentistry was done in the past, and here are a few of the most common treatments that have made huge advancements:

Tooth Replacement

Replacing missing teeth is typically left in the restorative dental category, however, there is an obvious cosmetic aspect to living without one or more of your teeth. The ancient Egyptians were known for using seashells that they would actually hammer into their gums, a procedure that sounds beyond painful and unsanitary. Thankfully, dental implants have made it possible for teeth not only to be replaced with prosthetics that look exactly like your natural teeth but also with titanium rods that fuse to your jawbone and promote new growth.

Dental Crowns and Bridges

Before porcelain and composite resin, the best option for crowns and bridges was a strong metal that could withstand the pressure that teeth are put under each day. That metal was gold! While it may have been effective, it certainly wasn’t natural-looking. Of course, there have been people throughout history who have chosen gold for dental restoration for aesthetic purposes, but the majority of people would rather others not be able to point out those restorations.

Teeth Whitening

This one might come as a shocker, but believe it or not, the ancient Romans would actually rinse their mouths with animal and human urine in order to whiten their teeth. While it’s rather disgusting it did actually work to lighten the enamel, however, the high acidity in it was a drawback that would eventually begin to wear down the enamel, making the teeth more susceptible to decay. Not to mention the high levels of germs and bacteria found in urine! Thankfully, your dentist’s state-of-the-art whitening technology contains only safe products that have been created to protect your teeth while whitening them, and with no human or animal products included.

Thanks to the brilliance of scientists and dentists worldwide, you can be thankful for the leaps and bounds that cosmetic dentistry has taken throughout the centuries. If you’re wanting to learn more about how you can transform your smile, talk to your dentist about which cosmetic dental treatment is right for you!

About the Practice

Are you searching for a dental practice where you can receive the highest quality of smile transformation in Southlake? Then look no further than Dr. J. Lee Pettigrew. For years, he has been giving patients the smiles of their dreams thanks to cosmetic dentistry. He is highly trained and educated and will stop at nothing to make sure that you are more than satisfied with your results. Visit us online to schedule an appointment or call (817) 481-4888.

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