How Have Dentures Changed Over the Years?

October 17, 2024

Filed under: Uncategorized — 325pros @ 8:50 pm

Tooth loss is nothing new, and neither are dentures. They have been the tried and tested way of replacing missing teeth for centuries! Dentures are a great way to restore the appearance and function of the teeth. However, this type of prosthetic may be even older than you expected. Continue reading to learn about how dentures began and how they became what they are today.

The World’s First Dentures

The first known dentures are from approximately 700 BC. This is when the Etruscans of ancient, northern Italy made tooth replacements with human and animal teeth tied together with gold wire. Due to their composition, they were likely just for cosmetic purposes, as they wouldn’t have stood up well to the pressure required for eating and chewing. Similar dentures have also been found in Egyptian and Mayan archaeological sites.
The earliest surviving set of complete dentures is made from wood. They were found in Japan and originated from the 16th century.

Dentures During Revolutionary Times

You have likely heard the story of George Washington and his wooden dentures. However, this is actually a myth. Washington’s dentures were actually made from a carved hippopotamus ivory plate, human teeth, horse teeth, and donkey teeth. Over time, ivory became stained and smelly, so they were uncomfortable and unsanitary. At this period in history, dentures like these were expensive, so they were only an option for the wealthy.

19th Century Dentures

In the 1800s, sugar consumption throughout Europe increased dramatically. This was especially the case in England, so many people didn’t have many of their natural teeth remaining by the time they reached 50. This created a higher demand for dentures, causing them to become a status symbol among the elite. One of the main sources of replacement teeth for dentures at the time was from deceased soldiers on the battlefield. Teeth were also extracted from criminals and sold by the needy to make some extra money.

The Rise of Porcelain Dentures

The first pair of porcelain dentures were invented by a British physician in 1774. However, they were unnaturally white and chipped easily. In 1820, a silversmith tried mounting porcelain teeth onto gold plating and springs with swivels, allowing for a more natural-looking and feeling prosthetic. This ended up being the first “modern” set of dentures as we know them now.

Modern Dentures

Since porcelain and gold were expensive materials, the average person couldn’t afford this type of denture. That’s why an alternative was created in the mid-1800s from hardened rubber and vulcanite. This type of denture became very popular and was widely used until the 20th century when acrylic resin rose in popularity.

Dentures have changed millions of lives over the years. If you are interested in replacing your missing teeth with dentures, schedule a consultation with your dentist so you can have a complete smile again!

About the Practice

At 325 Dentistry, Dr. Robert Hawley and Dr. Jonathan Hawley are board-certified prosthodontists who work together to treat patients in the Abilene community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. To learn more about dentures or to schedule a consultation, visit their website or call (325) 692-0565.