Dentures have come a long way from their ancient origins. Early civilizations like the Egyptians and Etruscans experimented with materials like gold wire and bone, while the Japanese famously used wooden dentures from the 16th to 19th centuries. By the 18th century, skilled craftsmen began using ivory, human, and animal teeth, marking a turning point in denture-making. Eventually, rubber, early plastics, and acrylics revolutionized denture materials, making them more durable, comfortable, and natural-looking. Today, digital dentures and implant-supported prosthetics showcase just how far dental technology has advanced.

Let’s take a closer look at the history, myths, and evolution of dentures and the incredible advancements that have shaped modern prosthetics.

Dentures date back thousands of years. Around 2500 B.C., the earliest known false teeth were crafted from wolf teeth in Mexico. Meanwhile, the Etruscans were pioneering gold-wire dentures, attaching human and animal teeth to restore missing smiles. The Egyptians also created bone dentures wrapped in gold wire, showing an early emphasis on dental aesthetics.

In Japan, from the 16th to 19th centuries, wooden dentures were widely used. These unique prosthetics were handcrafted and shaped using beeswax impressions, often incorporating human and animal teeth, horn, or pagodite (a type of mineral).

The ingenuity of these ancient civilizations highlights their early understanding of oral health, long before modern dentistry took shape.

One of the most famous denture myths is that George Washington had wooden teeth. In reality, his dentures were a sophisticated combination of:

✔ Ivory – Durable but prone to staining.

✔ Gold & Lead – Used for framework and support.

✔ Human & Animal Teeth – Some were even purchased from individuals facing poverty.

The "wooden teeth" myth likely came from the discoloration of his ivory dentures over time, making them appear brown or grainy.

Even with all the advancements in dental prosthetics, keeping your natural teeth is always the best option - even we say so! Here are the top ways to maintain good oral health:

✔ Regular Dental Checkups – Catch problems early before they worsen.

✔ Daily Brushing & Flossing – Prevent decay and gum disease.

✔ Avoid Sugary Foods & Drinks – Reduce the risk of cavities and erosion.

✔ Wear a Mouthguard – Protect your teeth from sports injuries or nighttime grinding.

By following these steps, you can keep your teeth healthy for life and minimise the need for dentures in the future.