A Closer Look at Dentures through the Years

Not everyone keeps their natural teeth throughout their entire life – studies conducted by the American College of Prosthodontists indicate over 178 million people in the United States are missing at least one tooth. Tooth loss occurs for many reasons; gum disease, tooth decay, injury or trauma, cancer, or simply wear over time.

Dental solutions are available to people who are missing teeth. Dentures have come a long way over the centuries, and modern materials and techniques have improved the process of customizing and fitting a new set of teeth. These days, we don't have to sacrifice so much to regain our smiles!

Dentures through the Years

The first known set of dentures were made in Italy by the Etruscan people of Etruria, and date to approximately 700 BC. These basic appliances consisted of teeth from an animal or another person, fastened onto a gold band with a metal pin, and fitted onto the remaining teeth.

Dentures were not for the masses, and the only people who could afford them were the wealthy upper-class. As dentures developed, dentists discovered different solutions to restorations, such as using the hard rubbery material, vulcanite as a base for false teeth. In 1820, a silversmith and goldsmith by the name of Claudius Ash created dentures consisting of 18-karat gold plates and porcelain crowns, featuring gold springs and swivels. Both aesthetically pleasing, and more functional than older models, these dentures marked a turning point in tooth restorations.

Contemporary Tooth Restorations

Modern dentures offer patients reliable solutions to a host of dental problems, including aesthetics. Dentures provide stability and a full range of function. Dentures can be complete or partial – complete dentures are required when no natural teeth remain, while partial dentures are used to replace a series of missing teeth.

Advanced technological improvements have brought additional benefits to traditional dentures by means of dentalimplants. Fixed and removable dentures give patients the added assurance that their denture plate will stay in place. Because the titanium post fused to the bone, the dental implant will also help to maintain the health of the surrounding bone and soft tissue.

If you are missing teeth or are looking to improve your current denture, contact our Torrance office for more details. Dr. Mondavi will discuss your options to improve your smile with comfortable, natural looking dentures.