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When you consider the degree to which the standards of dentistry diminish as you look further back throughout history, it was certainly a matter of when – not if – people would suffer from tooth loss. In related news, dentures have existed for a long, long time.
From the Etruscans to the Japanese to George Washington and now in modern dentistry, keep reading to learn how necessity and innovation affected the evolution of dentures so that they became an excellent option for the modern patient.
Italy
In 700 BC, the Etruscans of Northern Italy made the first false teeth out of human or animal ones tied together with gold wires. The materials they used were not likely to withstand the pressure required for eating, so these dentures were for cosmetic purposes.
Mexico
Indigenous tribes in Mexico replaced their missing teeth with wolf teeth. The wolf tooth was inserted into the space where the natural tooth was once located. Ancient Mayans replaced missing teeth with carved stones, bits of bone, or even seashells. Surprisingly, the patient’s jawbone would fuse with these materials for a permanent fix.
Japan
The Japanese were the first people to create relatively modern-looking dentures using wood from the 1500s to the 1800s. These dentures relied upon the same type of suction techniques used to hold dentures in place nowadays.
They used softened beeswax to create what must have been the earliest type of dental impression, which was then filled with a harder wax to create a model of the gums to formulate the denture. Later versions of these dentures featured human teeth or imitations made from animal horns.
France
Pierre Fauchard is credited as the “father of modern dentistry.” In 1726, he utilized teeth fabricated from animal bone and a metal frame to make the first set of dentures. Alexis Duchateau created the first porcelain dentures in 1774 after being disgusted by the odor of his own ivory dentures.
George Washington’s Dentures
Contrary to popular belief, George Washington didn’t wear wooden dentures. His dentures were comprised of a carved hippopotamus ivory plate into which human teeth, along with some horse and donkey teeth, were placed. While these types of dentures were only an option for the wealthy, they did remain in demand into the early 1800s.
Dentures in the 1800s
In 1820, a goldsmith named Samuel Stockton began making high-quality dentures with porcelain teeth supported by 18-carat gold plates. In 1850, dentures were made from a hardened and durable rubber called vulcanite that was more affordable and comfortable than the porcelain dentures of the time.
Dentures in the 1900s
Dental implant technology arrived in the 1950s when a Swedish orthopedic surgeon realized that bone would fuse to titanium rods, creating a virtually unbreakable bond.
Modern Dentures
Fortunately, the techniques used to fabricate dentures today are incredibly sophisticated, creating lifelike teeth that feel comfortable to wear. Dentists now use polymethylmethacrylate, a type of acrylic resin available in many shades that closely resembles real gum tissue. Dentures are available in hundreds of shapes and colors.
That’s quite the journey for dentures through the centuries, but their technology continues to progress today. Maybe you could try inserting seashells or wolf teeth into your gums for a fashion statement, but from an oral health perspective, it’s not recommended. Be sure to ask your dentist in Lancaster what specific types of dentures they offer to find out what is the best fit for you!
About the Practice
At Sunny Dental, we strive to provide top-quality dental services in a relaxing environment. Our work isn’t done until you are sporting a warm, radiant smile. We offer an array of services to patients of all ages at our office location. We will maximize your dental insurance benefits and offer weekend and evening hours to accommodate your busy schedule. If you are interested in dentures or partials, we use digital technology to more accurately produce customized prosthetics that ensure a perfect fit. Be sure to ask about implant-retained dentures. To schedule a consultation, visit our website or call (469) 765-8050.
