How Have Dentures Evolved Over the Years?

Dentures haven’t always been so comfortable and natural looking as they are today. This tooth replacement option goes back much further than you may think, but it wasn’t anything like modern dentures in Green Lake. Continue reading to learn more about the root of ancient dentures and how they evolved over time to become what they are now.

The Beginning of False Teeth

It is believed that false teeth originated all the way back to 700 B.C. when the Etruscans of ancient, Northern Italy constructed them with human or animal teeth tied together with gold wiring. These seem to have provided more of a cosmetic value over practical. In indigenous tribes in Mexico, teeth were often replaced with wolf teeth. They would be inserted into the space where the missing tooth once was. Ancient Mayans used carved stones, bones, and even seashells. They would fuse with the natural jawbone and be a permanent fix.

The First Dentures

The earliest surviving set of complete dentures were made out of wood in 16th century Japan and relied on the same type of suction techniques used today to hold them in place. Over time, they began to include real human teeth or teeth made from animal horn.

You have probably heard about the myth about George Washington wearing wooden dentures, but that actually isn’t true. His dentures were made from a carved hippopotamus ivory plate in which human, horse, and donkey teeth were placed. These would become stained, smelly, and be incredibly uncomfortable over time.

The demand for dentures increased in the 1800s when the sugar consumption in Europe skyrocketed. Teeth were often collected from people who died in battle, executed criminals, and poor people who sold them to make money. As uncomfortable as dentures were at the time, they were very expensive and only worn by the wealthy.

In 1774, British physician, Alexis Duchâteau, invented the first pair of porcelain dentures after his hippopotamus ones began to rot. However, these weren’t entirely successful. Eventually, he began working with a British dentist. Together, they created and patented a more durable version in 1791.

Modern Dentures

Fortunately, dentures today are made from acrylic resin which matches natural gum tissue. The artificial teeth are made from durable acrylic and are available in many shapes and colors to give patients the most attractive, natural look possible. Dentures can be refitted and replaced by your dentist in Greek Lake over time to ensure that they are functioning well and comfortable. It is unlikely that anyone will be able to tell that you’re wearing them unless you tell them!

False teeth have been around for a long time, but they have evolved a lot over the years. Today, they are much more practical and can make a huge difference in the quality of life for many people who are missing teeth.