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The first known UK patent for artificial teeth was De Chemant's Specification in 1791 patent nos 1803.

"A composition for the purpose of making of artificial teeth either single double or in rows or in compleat setts and also springs for fastening or affixing the same in a more easy and effectual manner than any hitherto discovered which said teeth may be made of any shade or colour, which they will retain for any length of time and will consequently more prefectly resemble the natural teeth."

The patent details how Nicholas Dubois De Chemant used a mineral paste of fine white sand and after three to four washes mixed it with 10 pounds of Alicant barilla pounded, sifted and baked. The resultant mixture was then ground and baked to purify and then mixed with water to a paste and set to harden. It then lists the different tinctures that can be added to create a natural colour.

Dentists use artificial teeth to replace broken, decayed or eroded teeth. The process of implanting an artificial tooth is expensive and not always needed.

Eroded teeth are most often caused by grinding although one must always consider other options. Regular swimming in a chlorinated pool is a little known factor that results in tooth erosion. Cooldrinks of all nature - especially energy drinks - are other well known causes of tooth erosion.