Dental veneers are among the most popular cosmetic procedures because they create drastic, lasting results. Although they may seem like a fairly new treatment, veneers have been used for decades; however, they’ve changed quite a bit since 1928. Here’s how they’ve improved over time to provide the dazzling results you see today.
Early Dental Veneers
The first veneers appeared in the 1920s. A dentist in California, Charles Pincus, designed veneers in 1928 after being tasked with the duty of temporarily changing the appearance of an actor’s smile for a film.
He used an acrylic material to create false fronts, which were applied to teeth using a temporary adhesive. They were successful, but would fall off after an hour or two. This required Dr. Pincus to provide cosmetic dental treatments onsite for many movie stars in Hollywood, making veneers very expensive.
Composites and porcelains weren’t used until the 1930s and 1940s, which created more natural-looking results. The new materials made veneers more affordable. People from all walks of life began investing in veneers.
New materials aren’t the only advancements. A unique etching process developed in 1959 revolutionized the procedure. Dr. Michael Buonocore found applying a mild acidic solution to teeth created a stronger bonding surface, which is a method still used today. Not only is it used for veneers, but many other treatments, like dental sealants and crowns.
Modern-Day Dental Veneers
Another major advancement was made in the 1980s by R.J. Simonsen and J.R. Calamia. They found a method of etching the surfaces of teeth that lasted longer using hydrofluoric acid.
Today’s veneers are made of porcelain, which closely resembles enamel. Porcelain is biocompatible, durable, and allows veneers to be very thin. As a result, less enamel is removed during the application process. Veneers can last for 10 years or more with the right care, like brushing and flossing.
Achieve a Picture-Perfect Smile
You don’t have to be rich or famous to revamp your smile with veneers. They are a cost-effective solution to enhance your smile without needing multiple or lengthy procedures. They can resolve stains, chips, and gaps in as few as 2 appointments. You can save time and money while investing in the smile of your dreams.
Your cosmetic dentist will create a personalized treatment plan to achieve your best smile using a solution supported by decades of success.
About Dr. Poorvi Gandhi
Dr. Gandhi earned her dental degree from the Kornberg School of Dentistry at Temple University and regularly continues her education to provide the latest innovations in dentistry. She strives to provide patient-focused care to create healthy, beautiful smiles. Dr. Gandhi is a member of the American Dental Association and the Pennsylvania Dental Association. Request an appointment through our website or call (215) 631-8846.
