In modern times, teeth whitening is both easy and safe. All you have to do is visit your dentist, and in a short amount of time, you can achieve a brighter, more confident smile! In the past, though, people resorted to some surprising (and dangerous) methods in their quest to reach their aesthetic goals. Are you curious about the history of teeth whitening? This blog post will take you back in time. What you learn may enhance your appreciation for the modern conveniences that are so common today!
The Earliest Teeth Whitening Methods
The earliest record of teeth whitening dates back thousands of years ago — to the ancient Egyptians. They viewed white teeth as a sign of beauty and wealth. Historians believe they created a whitening paste out of pumice and wine vinegar. As you can imagine, this method could cause dental sensitivity and enamel erosion.
The ancient Romans may have also endeavored to whiten their teeth. They used urine (yes, human waste) to brighten up their grins. That may sound shocking or even farfetched, but it was effective. The ammonia in urine can act as a bleaching agent.
17th Century Teeth Whitening
Very little about whitening methods changed from ancient times until the 17th century, when people relied on their barbers for help with their dental needs. To whiten a client’s teeth, the barber would first roughen up their surface with a metal file. Thereafter, they would apply nitric acid. This method worked, but it also caused serious damage to the tooth enamel.
The Birth of Modern Teeth Whitening
In the 19th century, while dentists were looking for a way to treat gum disease, they accidentally made a happy discovery. They found that in addition to fighting gum disease, hydrogen peroxide can also whiten teeth. In 1918, it was further discovered that a heat lamp can accelerate the whitening process. Several decades later, in the 1960s, an opalescence carbamide peroxide gel was formulated that could be used along with custom whitening trays.
Teeth Whitening Today
Since the 1960s, teeth whitening methods have made great steps forward. Whether you want to drastically brighten your smile in a single dental appointment or do so gradually at home, safe and effective options are available for you. Next time you use a whitening product, you can be grateful that cosmetic dentistry has come so far!
Meet the Practice
The team at Jasper Dentistry in Fort Mill is proud to provide a broad range of services for patients in our community, including both in-office and take-home teeth whitening. Whether you are dealing with stubborn stains or want to look your best for an upcoming event, we are ready to assist you. To learn more about us and how we may be able help you reach your goals for your smile, contact us at 803-548-4353.