What were the first false teeth made of?

Ivory – elephant, walrus or preferably hippo – was traditionally used to make dentures.

This element of dentistry was often undertaken by people with a technical, rather than medical, background, such as clock, or watch makers.

The molars were only roughly formed. Of course getting the dentures to stay in place was a major concern.

Trying to measure the mouth was difficult, either using a pair of compasses or using a piece of card to draw an outline. It was difficult to carve the ivory to fit well over the whole palate so upper sets were normally horseshoe shaped.

Full lower sets were weighted to help gravity. To help upper sets stay in place springs were attached to the bottom set and the spring thus pushed the upper set upwards.

Partial dentures were either tied on to surrounding teeth with a thread of metal or silk, or carved with holes to slot around remaining teeth.

More Info: bda.org

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8 Comments

Special Patrol Group

According to The History of Dentistry, dentures date all the way back to 2500 B.C. when they were made from animal teeth. Centuries later, the ancient Egyptians and the Etruscans made dentures from bone, wire, and repurposed animal and human teeth.

Stevie G

The reference used is not suitable. The reference and explanation do not confirm the question. The answer given is wrong. Another question that was not reviewed.

Rajnish Gautam

No historical date stamp has been provided by the writer. Incomplete information.

Donald L Hersey

The earliest known dentures consisted of human or animal teeth tied together with wires. Examples of such dentures have been found in Egyptian and Mexican archeological sites. Other ancient peoples use carved stones and shells to replace lost teeth. These early dentures were probably made for cosmetic purposes.