Dentistry in Russia is finally leaving the Dark Ages behind

Yekaterina Tkalenko brushes her teeth three or four times a day, especially after enamel-insulting tea or coffee; has them professionally cleaned twice a year; and carries floss as if it were as vital as an inhaler. She recently spent nearly $1,000 to have her teeth whitened.

“When I look at a person, no matter who it is, the first thing I look at is his or her teeth and their smile,” said the 34-y ...