Dental crowns are one of those treatments that gets taken for granted in the modern dentistry scene. But have you ever wondered how they came to be? You might be surprised to know that they have a long and varied history stretching back thousands of years! While the first crowns didn’t look like they do today, they served their purpose for the time.
If you want to learn more about the history of dental crowns and how they evolved, continue reading.
Ancient Dental Crowns
The earliest known examples of dental crowns date back to ancient civilizations like the Egyptians, Etruscans, and Romans. These early crowns were typically crafted from materials like gold, ivory, seashells, or even human teeth! While not as refined by today’s standards, these crowns were crucial in restoring the form and function of damaged teeth.
Crowns in the Age of Enlightenment
Much of medieval dentistry in Europe was treating teeth with fillings and powders. However, the concept of dental crowns as they are known today didn’t begin until the 1700s—well after medieval times. Dentists in these early years tried to make gold look as life-like as possible.
The first fully ceramic dental crown in America was created by Charles H. Land in 1889. This “jacket” crown surrounded the whole tooth but was still not as sturdy as its modern counterpart.
Modern Dental Crowns
In the present day, dental crowns are crafted using state-of-the-art technology and materials, including ceramic, zirconia, and porcelain-fused-to-metal. Computer-aided design and manufacturing technologies have refined the process over time, allowing for highly precise and custom-fit crowns. Colorizing technology has also come a long way, ensuring that modern dental crowns blend seamlessly with natural teeth.
As you can see, dental crowns have stood the test of time as one of the most effective and widely used treatments. From simple beginnings to modern innovations, the history of dental crowns is a fascinating look into mankind’s quest for oral health excellence. As technology continues to advance, future crowns could have even better precision, durability, and aesthetics—along with being more accessible. So, the next time you flash your crowns, remember the centuries of invention and craftsmanship that went into your smile.
About the Author
Need a dental crown? Dr. JD Hansen is a skilled and friendly dental expert who loves helping his patients get the dental restorations they need for a healthy and complete smile. He earned his dental doctorate from the University of Louisville and has advanced training in multiple dental procedures including dental crowns. Call (801) 293-1234 to schedule an appointment at White Peak Dental or visit the website to browse other services they offer.