Chris Lyons is a maker of commercial-grade prosthetic teeth in England, creating perfect replica teeth for film and television. He has worked with many celebrities, including Meryl Streep, Rami Malek, and Rufus Sewell, to transform their teeth for roles in movies and shows. Lyons can create a variety of teeth, from perfectly white and straight to chipped, crooked, and yellowing, depending on the character’s needs.
Our teeth are essential for eating and speaking, and they can reveal a lot about our social status and personal habits. They have evolved over time to be efficient in grinding up food and securing blood supply through their roots. Humans develop two sets of teeth in their lifetime, with wisdom teeth emerging last in the late teens or early 20s.
Teeth have been used by anthropological researchers to study ancient populations, as teeth can reveal details about an individual’s diet, health, and living conditions. Chemical makeup and wear patterns in teeth speak to an individual’s life history and experiences, including evidence of stress, diet variations, and even occupation, as seen in ancient tooth plaque containing lapis lazuli.
Teeth can be crucial in identifying individuals in forensic cases, as they are made of hard enamel, the most durable substance in the human body. Dental records can help make positive identifications, even when the rest of the body is no longer intact. Bite marks are not as reliable in crime cases, but teeth impressions in chewing gum or chocolate can provide valuable evidence.
It is essential to take care of our teeth with regular brushing and flossing, avoiding sugary foods, and attending regular dental check-ups. Dentists can glean information about a person’s lifestyle and habits by examining their teeth, such as whether they grew up in a fluoridated area or consumed acidic drinks. Whitening treatments are safe when done under dental supervision, and cosmetic enhancements like veneers can improve smiles.
The value placed on straight, white teeth has evolved over time, from historical practices of blackening teeth or using real teeth for dentures to modern trends like veneers, grillz, and tooth gems. Dental aesthetics have played a role in social status and perceptions of beauty, with straight, white teeth often seen as more desirable. Cosmetic dental procedures can improve appearance and self-confidence while showcasing individual style and personality.
