The rise of social media and digital imaging has individuals worldwide putting their faces in the spotlight. Everywhere a person looks, smiles appear – all shapes, sizes, and colors. As more people turn to these online outlets to stay connected or “influence” followers, the desire for more beautiful appearances increases. This results in many individuals looking to cosmetic dentistry, specifically teeth whitening, for answers. But where did this popular treatment get its start? Keep reading to find out.
Teeth Whitening: Where It All Began
It is believed that the Ancient Egyptians can be credited as being the first ones to try teeth whitening. While the ingredients used today didn’t exist back then, nearly 4,000 years ago, these individuals used wine vinegar and pumice stone to create a paste that was applied to teeth to whiten them.
Continuing with the Ancient Romans, they took a much more drastic approach and used their own urine, believing the ammonia would eliminate tooth stains and enhance smiles.
Fast forward to the 17th century, these outdated methods were a thing of the past. Instead, a powerful acid was used to whiten teeth. Dentists were not prominent during this time period, so barbers were tasked with not only caring for individual’s hair but also their smiles.
While the acid was effective in removing stains, it was also found to be extremely harmful to teeth, causing the enamel to erode and become vulnerable to tooth decay.
The Popularity of Teeth Whitening Today
When looking back at history to see how other groups of people performed this type of aesthetic treatment, patients nowadays can be grateful that times have changed.
Not only has the field of dentistry improved, but dental technology has also become more modernized, and more research is being done to ensure the use of safe, effective ingredients when treating smiles.
This is true with teeth whitening. A person cannot walk down the aisles of a drugstore without seeing countless products being promoted to those with stained teeth. Promising fast results, the strips, gels, pens, and trays do not live up to the hype that companies proclaim.
However, with the inclusion of cosmetic dentistry in dental offices throughout the world, professional teeth whitening remains one of the most popular forms of treatment available.
Although it is costlier than over-the-counter solutions, the results speak for themselves. The ingredients found in products used specifically by cosmetic dentists offer a stronger approach to targeting stains and discoloration on and below the enamel’s surface. Whether used as part of a take-home kit or during an in-office whitening session, teeth reap the benefits of the more powerful whitening agents.
Also, its affordability makes it a worthwhile investment – one that millions of patients are already enjoying the benefits of.
There is nothing to indicate that teeth whitening will lose its popularity in the years to come, especially as the world becomes more digitally focused. The methods used to whiten teeth may no longer consist of vinegar, acid, or urine (thankfully!), but the same goal is still desired even today – to enjoy life with a brighter, healthier smile.
About Grand Dental – Lake Zurich
At Grand Dental – Lake Zurich, our cosmetic dentists believe it is important to help patients feel good about their appearance. While good oral health remains at the forefront, aesthetics can have a significant impact on one’s mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Providing teeth whitening as a quick, easy, and affordable solution, individuals can enhance their smiles by several shades and enjoy the benefits it provides. If you’re ready to do something about your tooth stains, visit our website or call (847) 443-3953 to learn how we can help.