Veneers – How They Got Started!

Do you feel confident when you smile in the mirror? If the answer is no due to cosmetic imperfections of your smile, there are various cosmetic solutions to help you achieve pearly whites that you are proud to show off! Veneers are a popular solution because they can address discoloration, chips, cracks, and more. Something you might not know about veneers is that they are nothing new. Read on to learn more about veneers and how they have evolved over the years.

The Invention of Veneers

For a long time, humans have been taking drastic measures to improve their appearance to meet beauty standards. It was actually the film industry that first introduced veneers to the world. More specifically, they were invented in California by a dentist named “Dr. Charlie Pincus” in 1928. He created them to alter the appearance of the teeth so his clients could look beautiful for the Hollywood screen! However, these veneers aren’t permanent like the ones that you see today. They are attached using a special adhesive and were only meant to be worn for short periods.

The Etching Technique

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

In 1982, J. R. Simonsen brought the work of Dr. Pincus and Dr. Buonocore together to create a longer-lasting veneer. They applied hydrofluoric acidic 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 achieve results that lasted for many years.

Modern Dental Veneers

Today, dentists use the same etching and bonding technique. However, dental professionals today work with high-quality and strain resistant porcelain that closely resembles natural teeth. When cared for properly, modern veneers can last upward of 15 years before needing to be replaced with new ones, making them a long-lasting cosmetic solution.

If you have been looking for a more drastic smile makeover, veneers could be the solution that you’ve been hoping for. Schedule a consultation with your dentures to find out if they are right for you.

About the Practice

Dr. Henry Hsue and Dr. Julia Fredrickson work together to treat patients in the Bothell community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. If you are interested in veneers or want to schedule a consultation or to learn more, visit their website or call (425) 492-6898.