Etruscans are among the first known dentists. At around 700 BC, Etruscans in northern Italy use human or animal teeth to make dentures. The dentures they made are known to be the first ever dentures to be created. The teeth from other person or animals are inserted into a band of gold with a metal pin and fitted on to the remaining teeth. However, during that time, dentures were option available only to wealthy people since those were expensive.
In order to create the dentures, the ivories of animals such as hippopotamus, walrus, and elephant were carved to replace the missing teeth. However, ivory can be stained, gave off a foul smell, and uncomfortable to wear over time.
You may have heard about wooden dentures being used in ancient times. Wooden dentures actually do exist. They are invented in Japan in 16th Century. Bees wax is used to create the model to which the dentures that will be based from. These kind of dentures were used in Japan until 19th Century.
On the other hand, it was around 1770 when the first porcelain dentures were made. It was created by Alexis Duchâteau. Later on, in 1850s, dentures were made using vulcanite. It is a form of hardened rubber into which porcelain teeth were set. The 20th century dentures are made with acrylic resin and other plastic materials.
One famous patient for having dentures is the US President George Washington. Contrary to what other people believe, his dentures were made from ivory and bones of animals not from wood, with fixtures made of lead, brass screws, and gold metal wires.
Types of Dentures
Partial Dentures
If there are still few natural teeth remain, partial dentures are possible. Partial dentures can also help prevent the shifting of these remaining teeth.
Full Dentures
Full dentures are the option for people who have no teeth left. You can choose if you want a temporary or permanent dentures though removable ones are sometimes necessary to allow adjustments.
Whether partial or full dentures, Pembroke Pines Dental Associates will make sure to give you a fitting and durable dentures. Dr. Hakan Kinaci and his team will restore your smile. Call us at 954-266-0345. We offer services in areas near Pembroke Pines, Cooper City, Davie, and Miramar in Florida.
Sources:
Science Museum. Brought to Life: Exploring the History of Medicine. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/broughttolife/techniques/dentures
FACT CHECK: Did George Washington Have Wooden Teeth? (2017, February 20). Retrieved from http://www.snopes.com/george-washington-wooden-teeth/