Do you have unsightly stains, cracks, chips, or misalignments making you feel self-conscious about your smile? If so, you might be a good candidate for porcelain veneers. Your dentist can arrange these customized ceramic shells to the front surfaces of your enamel to mask one or several aesthetic concerns simultaneously.
But how much do you really know about this cosmetic service? Continue reading to learn more about how these restorations have evolved over the years and why now’s an ideal time to get them!
When Were The Earliest Veneers Made?
You might think of cosmetic dentistry as a contemporary concept, but even ancient cultures were concerned with how their teeth looked. For instance, archeologists have found evidence that around 700 B.C. the Etruscans of ancient Italy made replacement teeth from ivory or animal bone. Additionally, Egyptians and Romans were believed to use a type of “toothpaste” containing ingredients such as powdered pumice, vinegar, or urine to clean and whiten their teeth.
However, veneers weren’t established until the 1920s, when a Hollywood dentist named Charles Pincus developed temporary covers to perfect a movie star’s teeth for the big screen. These attachments were initially made from powdered plastic and porcelain and were intended to be easily removed once a scene was finished filming.
How Did Bonding for Veneers Evolve Over Time?
Veneers quickly gained popularity, but demand for more permanent bonding became clear. Then, in the 1950s, dentists began using a technique called ‘etching’ to improve the grasp of these restorations, which is still widely used today. This involves applying a mild acidic solution to the enamel to widen the microscopic pores, which allows the cement to provide a more secure attachment.
What Are Contemporary Veneers Like?
Today, these shells are made from resilient ceramic that can be customized to be the ideal shape, color, and size to perfect your smile. Then, they’re cemented over the front surfaces of your teeth to hide aesthetic concerns. You might think contemporary veneers, which are typically only 0.2 to 0.55 mm thick, are too thin to last long enough to justify the time and resources required to place them.
However, these shells are coated with a glaze that is strong enough to resist damage and discoloration and to help protect the underlying teeth from harm. Not only that, but most patients today can expect their restorations to last 20+ years if cared for correctly.
If you’re unsure whether veneers can help you achieve your aesthetic goals, you can learn more by scheduling a cosmetic consultation with your dentist!
Meet the Author
Dr. Sheren Elsaid is passionate about helping patients in Parsippany build and maintain the healthiest, most beautiful smiles. She earned her dental doctorate from Temple University and then completed her Advanced Education in General Dentistry through the New York University Langone Dental Medicine Program. Today, she takes the time to get to know your unique concerns and needs, then utilizes advanced technology to devise and deliver treatment plans tailored to meet them. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (973) 370-5221.