In Buckinghamshire, England, Chris Lyons runs Fangs F/X, creating custom-made prosthetic teeth for film and television, transforming actors like Meryl Streep and Rami Malek. His work ranges from creating perfect replica teeth to fantasy teeth and horrifying teeth for zombies. Lyons understands the importance of teeth in character development, creating teeth that reflect the social standing, income level, and historical period of the character.
Teeth are integral for survival and identification. Our teeth are multi-functional, allowing us to bite into food, tear meat and plants, and crush hard foods. The structure of our teeth is crucial for our survival, as improper teeth alignment could be detrimental to our health. The evolution of dentistry has allowed us to tolerate less optimal teeth, but it’s essential to care for our dental health by maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.
Teeth hold valuable information about our past. Anthropological research shows that teeth can reveal details about a person’s diet, origin, and even birth season. Ancient teeth can provide insights into an individual’s exposure to stress, habits, and dietary patterns. Researchers have even found evidence of ancient scribes and cultural practices by analyzing tooth plaque and wear patterns.
Teeth play a crucial role in forensic identification, as they are the hardest substance in the human body and can survive in challenging conditions. Forensic odontologists like Richard Bassed use dental records to identify victims in cases like natural disasters or accidents. While bite marks are unreliable in crime investigations, teeth can leave impressions on chewing gum and food, providing valuable evidence.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for overall health. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are crucial to prevent cavities and gum disease. Smoking and sugary drinks can negatively impact dental health, and proper care of teeth is necessary to prevent decay. Cosmetic treatments like veneers and whitening should be done under dental supervision for safety.
The societal value of straight, white teeth dates back centuries. Sugar consumption has significantly impacted dental health, leading to decay and the need for cosmetic dental work. Today, cosmetic treatments like veneers and aligners are popular for achieving a perfect smile. There is a social advantage associated with having straight, white teeth, with research suggesting that people with better dental appearance are perceived more positively. Trends like tooth gems and grillz add a touch of bling to modern dental aesthetics, reflecting historical practices of decorating teeth with gold and jewels.
