The Evolution of Veneers

Veneers are an increasingly popular way to correct dental imperfections, leaving you with beautiful results. Whether you are dealing with discoloration, chips, cracks, or slight misalignment issues, veneers could be the solution for you. Something that you might not know about this restoration is that they have been around for almost 100 years! Continue reading to find out more!

The Invention of Veneers

For a long time, people have been taking drastic measures to keep up their appearance. Afterall, everyone wants to show off a beautiful smile. It was actually the film industry that first introduced veneers to the world. More specifically, they were invented by a Californian dentist known as Dr. Charlie Pincus in 1928. He created them to alter the appearance of the teeth so his clients would look perfect on the big screen. However, these veneers weren’t permanent like the ones that you see today. They were attached with adhesive and were only meant to be worn for a short period of time.

The Etching Technique

Veneers were widely used in Hollywood, but they also started to become more appealing to those who weren’t necessarily involved in the film industry. The issue at the time was that they weren’t very long-lasting, so this made them impractical to try to wear all the time. However, Dr. Michel Buonocore came up with the etching technique in 1959. This involves using acid on the surface of the teeth to make small grooves. This rough surface makes it easier to bond with sealants and other restorations.

In 1982, J. R. Calamia and R. J. Simonsen put the work of both Dr. Pincus and Dr. Buonocore together to create a longer-lasting veneer. They applied a hydrofluoric acid to the teeth and created small pores where the dental compound could seep into and create a strong bond with the veneer. This way, patients could have results that would last for several years.

Modern Dental Veneers

Today, dentists use the same etching and bonding technique. However, now dental professionals work with high-quality and stain-resistant porcelain that very closely resembles natural teeth. When cared for properly, modern veneers can last upward of 15 years before they need to be replaced with new ones, making it an ideal, long-lasting option.

For patients who are looking for a more dramatic smile makeover, veneers could be the solution that you are looking for. Schedule a consultation with your dentist to find out if they are the ideal solution for you!

About the Author

Dr. David Rosenfeld earned his dental doctorate from the Columbia University School of Dental & Oral Surgery in New York City. Currently, he holds Fellowship status in the International Congress of Oral Implantology and is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. To learn more about veneers or to schedule an appointment at his office in Edison, visit his website or call (908) 668-7838.