Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry treatment that can transform a healthy smile into one that looks flawless. But did you know that the invention of porcelain veneers dates back to the 1920s? It all started in California, when a dentist named Charles Pincus invented dental veneers for his famous Hollywood patients. At first, denture adhesive was the material of choice for gluing imitation teeth to natural tooth surfaces. However, this only provided a temporary bond and the veneers would only stay attached to tooth enamel for a few hours at a time.
As this was quite inconvenient for everyday use, makeup artists mostly used film veneers, to transform actors to look different for a particular role. In 1982, researchers expanded on the work of Dr. Pincus and achieved a stronger bond between veneers and teeth through the use of composite resin. This allowed porcelain veneers to be used in everyday life and not just in films.
Michael Bunocore then discovered dental engraving in the 1950s, which involved applying a slightly acidic solution to the teeth to make the enamel rough. This created a stronger bonding surface for the veneers. Today, porcelain veneers are thin layers of ceramic that adhere to the facial surface of teeth, where they can hide common dental defects such as discoloration, voids, and minor structural damage. With proper care and maintenance, they can last more than 20 years.
If you are looking for a quick, easy and minimally invasive treatment option to transform defective teeth into flawless smiles, porcelain veneers may be right for you. But there are numerous cosmetic solutions available, so it is important to consult with your dentist before making any decisions.
