Before veneers became a common cosmetic dental treatment, they were first exclusive to Hollywood stars. However, getting a red-carpet-ready smile shouldn’t be restricted to those on the big screen! As dentistry continued to evolve, it made this service more affordable and accessible to everyday people. Keep reading to learn how veneers have come a long way since the 1920s to become the treatment they are today.
Roots in Hollywood
The start of this cosmetic dental story begins in 1928. A Los Angeles dentist named Charles Pincus found a niche that he could fill. He had a loyal following of Hollywood stars, and as they became more aware of how they looked on-screen, he developed tooth-like caps that could be placed over their teeth. These shells were a combination of porcelain and powdered plastic that gave a flawless smile. They were temporary and would need to be replaced every few days or taken off right after filming.
Evolvement of Dental Techniques
Just a couple of decades later, in the 1950s, a more permanent solution was found. Dr. Michael Bunocore pioneered a process called etching. This helped restorations bond to teeth better by opening up the natural pores on enamel with an acidic solution.
With a greater surface for the dental cement to hold onto, many treatments were able to last longer. However, it wasn’t until the 1982s that this was combined with a cosmetic treatment like veneers.
The Rise of Modern Veneers
Over the next 40 years, this cosmetic dental work was continuously refined into what they are now. Today, these thin porcelain shells effectively restore the look and shape of your teeth. Instead of only lasting a few days like their older version, the modern treatment can last for over a decade with the proper care.
Their lifetime is thanks to the superior bonding methods developed and the high-quality materials that make them up. Better yet, veneers take as few as two appointments to get your dream smile. The first visit is the preparation of your teeth by removing a small amount of your enamel. This is to help the shells sit flush against your smile without looking big or feeling bulky. Then, a dental lab takes the time to expertly craft each veneer according to your smile.
After a few weeks, the permanent set is ready to be placed, and your dentist etches your teeth and bonds them with a strong dental cement. By the end of this appointment, you can enjoy a smile that’s ready for the red carpet!
About the Author
Dr. Adriana Zaharie graduated from the University of Antioquia with her DDS, but then got another dental degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. She wants you to feel confident in your grin, so she is proud to offer veneers. Using state-of-the-art technology, you can even see how they’ll look before starting your treatment. If you want to learn more about how this cosmetic treatment can benefit you, schedule an appointment or call us at (281) 394-4001.