The History of Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are thin shells that cover the entire front of a tooth. They require the removal of a thin layer of enamel to ensure that they adhere to the teeth properly and look natural. Veneers are used to mask chips, cracks, discoloration, minor alignment issues, and improve their shape. This popular treatment has been around since the 1920s and has changed a lot over time to become what we’re familiar with today. Read on to learn about the evolution and history of porcelain veneers.

A Smile for the Silver Screen

In 1928, a dentist named Dr. Charles Pincus from California created the first porcelain veneers. These early veneers were meant to temporarily change how actors’ teeth looked while they were filming movies. They were attached using removable adhesive, but Hollywood eventually shifted to using longer-lasting acrylic veneers. Since they were damaged easily, acrylic veneers had to be replaced pretty often.

The Creation of Etching

Dr. Michael Buonocore invented etching in 1959. This process used acid applied to the surface of the teeth to make them more porous, which allowed the restorations to better adhere to them. In 1982, the Simonsen and Calamia research group invented a way to use this method for treatments like porcelain veneers. Once the acid was applied to the teeth, a putty-like resin was put on them so it would seep into the grooves and create a stronger bond. This also allowed most patients to keep their veneers for several years before needing to get new ones or have their existing ones reattached or repaired.

The Veneers of Today

Today, the same etching and bonding techniques are still used to attach veneers. Modern veneers are of a higher quality and are made from dental-grade porcelain that’s resistant to staining. It also more closely resembles healthy teeth for more natural results.

Once a thin layer of enamel is removed from the teeth, the cosmetic dentist will take impressions of them and send those to a dental lab so the veneers will fit your smile perfectly. You’ll be fitted with temporary veneers to protect your teeth in the meantime. Once your dentist gets receives your new veneers from the lab, they will place them on your smile to achieve the final look.

Porcelain veneers were once only accessible to movie stars, but today this popular treatment is available at many dentist’s offices. If you think veneers are the right option for your smile, schedule a consultation with your dentist so you can be on your way to the smile you’ve always wanted!

About the Author

Drs. Christopher Duong, John Kuan, and Khoa Pham lead a compassionate team of Fort Worth oral health professionals who love helping patients achieve beautiful smiles. At Renaissance Dental, patient comfort and satisfaction are their top priority. They offer a variety of treatments that can give you just that with cosmetic procedures like porcelain veneers. Soon, you’ll be sporting a new smile you love! If you want to set up an appointment with Renaissance Dental or are interested in learning more about porcelain veneers, call their office at (817) 289-5200 or visit their website.