Have you ever been watching a movie, TV show, or celebrity interview and wondered how they got their smile to look so good? For many celebrities, veneers are the answer! Though these thin, porcelain shells can be used to fix the smiles of A-listers and your everyday person, things didn’t use to be that way. Read on to learn about the history of porcelain veneers and how they’ve evolved over the years.
Light, Camera, Action!
A dentist from California named Dr. Charles Pincus created the first porcelain veneers in 1928. They were intended to temporarily alter the appearance of an actor’s teeth during film shoots. Removable adhesive was used to attach these early veneers to the actor’s teeth. Eventually, people in Hollywood started to use longer-lasting acrylic veneers. Since they were easily damaged, acrylic veneers had to be replaced regularly.
The Invention of Etching
In 1959, Dr. Michael Buonocore invented etching, a process in which acid is applied to the surface of the tooth. This makes it more porous so the restoration can better adhere to itThe Simonsen and Calamia research group came up with a way to use this method for dental treatments like veneers in 1982. Once the acid was applied to the surfaces of the tooth, a putty-like bonding resin was put on it so it would seep into the new tooth grooves. This created a stronger bond and allowed most patients to retain their veneers for several years before they needed to be reattached, repaired, or replaced.
The Veneers of Today
The same etching and bonding techniques are still used today to attach veneers to patients’ teeth. Modern veneers are higher quality and made from dental-grade, stain-resistant porcelain that more closely resembles healthy, natural teeth. During a modern-day veneer procedure, a thin layer of enamel is removed so the porcelain shell fits snugly and seamlessly blends in with the rest of the smile. Impressions of the teeth are made and sent to a dental lab for the veneers to be made. Once your dentist gets them back from the lab, they’ll have you come back in to have them placed. Just like that, your new smile is complete!
4 Benefits of Porcelain Veneers
Now that you understand the history of porcelain veneers, in what ways do they benefit patients? Some of the most noteworthy perks that veneers offer include:
- Durable and long-lasting – With proper care, porcelain veneers can last for 15 years or longer!
- Fix minor cosmetic issues – Chips, cracks, small gaps, misshapen teeth, and minor alignment issues are a few of the cosmetic flaws that porcelain veneers can correct.
- A whiter smile – Veneers can cover up dental discoloration. Since they’re made from stain-resistant porcelain they will also keep your smile looking bright and white for years to come.
- Protecting damaged teeth – If your tooth enamel is eroded, veneers can protect them from damage and help keep tooth decay at bay.
Though the original intention wasn’t for veneers to be used by the average person, they have become a popular way to correct issues with one’s smile. Speak with your dentist to see if they’re the right option to give your pearly whites the upgrade they need!
About the Author
Do you wish your smile was as lovely as that of your favorite actor? With veneers from D&G Dental, that dream may just become a reality! Led by Dr. Med Dawoud and Dr. Paula Gencarelli, they offer durable, highly stain-resistant porcelain veneers to correct issues with your pearly whites and give you the brag-worthy smile you’ve always wanted. To make an appointment with D&G Dental or for more information on porcelain veneers, call their office at (973) 731-2200 or visit their website.