Did you know that people with dental problems are more likely to report feelings of anxiety or depression? Unfortunately, if you’re feeling self-conscious about aesthetic concerns, such as chips, cracks, mild misalignments, or stubborn stains, you might worry about being judged and avoiding spending time with others.
Thankfully, your dentist can improve your appearance and enhance your confidence by placing porcelain veneers. But how much do you know about this popular cosmetic service? Continue reading to learn more about how these restorations have developed over time!
When Were Veneers Developed?
Would you be surprised to learn that the first set of veneers was made for a movie star in 1928? A Los Angeles dentist named Dr. Charles Pincus initially designed thin, temporary acrylic shells to provide a quick smile makeover for Hollywood actors and actresses to look their best on the big screen. He fabricated these attachable covers using a mixture of powdered plastic and porcelain that was molded into a flawless tooth shape, then snapped in place to hide dental imperfections.
This treatment quickly gained popularity as Pincus continued to work with well-known celebrities, including Bob Hope, May West, Judy Garland, and many others. However, it would be decades before a more permanent solution was developed.
How Did Veneers Evolve?
The first veneers were removable and were only meant to be worn for a short time, and the adhesives holding them in place tended to wear off quickly, causing them to fail. One way to improve their longevity was by etching. This technique involves applying acid to enamel to roughen the surface, which allows for a stronger bond to form during the cementing process.
Although etching had been a familiar dental concept since the 1950s, it wasn’t applied to porcelain restorations until the 1980s, when Drs. J.R. Calamia and R. J. Simonsen demonstrated how veneers placed this way could potentially last for years.
What Should I Expect from Contemporary Veneers?
Thanks to more recent developments in dental technology and materials, veneers are now considered more comfortable and resilient than ever! These cosmetic enhancements continue to gain popularity as more people learn about their many benefits.
Today, these shells are made from resilient porcelain that’s less porous than enamel and is coated with a glaze durable enough to resist chips, cracks, and stains. Not only that, but they can be customized to match or improve the size, tone, and shape of your natural teeth for beautiful, lifelike results that boost your confidence.
If you’re considering veneers to address your dental concerns and enhance your appearance, there’s no better time than now to move forward!
About the Practice
Patients at Smile Design of Virginia Beach benefit from a team of providers eager to help them build beautiful, healthy smiles. Dr. Santos, Dr. Folck, and Dr. Squire collaborate to offer a comprehensive menu of services, including porcelain veneers, to meet all your needs under one roof. Their compassionate approach is combined with state-of-the-art equipment to design and deliver more comfortable, accurate treatments. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (757) 499-9639.