How Veneers Have Changed Over Time

Like other dental work, veneers look a lot different today than in years past. Technology has improved and dentists can use different tactics when placing a veneer on your tooth. If you have cosmetic defects on a tooth and want to change your appearance, a veneer could be the right restoration for you.

The purpose of the veneers

For patients, the reasons to get veneers have largely been the same throughout time. This treatment method began in the 1920s. It was common for movie stars and other celebrities to wear them to cover up flaws in their teeth, such as chips and cracks. People have them for these reasons today as well. These thin shells can also hide discoloration, misaligned teeth and abnormally large or small teeth.

The materials

In the earliest days of veneers, dentists would use porcelain to construct the sheets. The trend began to shift to acrylic in the 1950s. However, in more recent years, veneers are going back to their roots. Most of them are made of porcelain today, though other people choose composite resin veneers.

Removable vs. permanent

When people first starting using veneers to improve their smile and conceal oral flaws, the sheets were temporary. People would often wear them for pictures or to go out in public. However, the wearer could remove the veneer at any time. Today, veneers attach to the front surface of the affected tooth.

The dentist removes a bit of enamel and etches the tooth. This enables the cement to bond to the tooth and veneer effectively. A light then activates a chemical to quickly harden the cement. The veneer stays in place permanently and should last for up to 20 years or more.

Veneers and the time frame

There was a time when the process of getting veneers could take hours. This procedure may still go over a period of a few appointments, but much of this is prep work. The dentist must take X-rays, make impressions and get the tooth ready to bond to the veneer. Recently, dentists have found ways to fit patients with no-prep veneers. These fit directly over the tooth and often do not require the dentist to remove any enamel. Also, the dentist can make composite veneers in the office.

Customization

Originally, veneers all looked the same. Patients did not have the option of choosing shapes, sizes and colors. Today, one of the biggest benefits of choosing this treatment is that a veneer comes in a wide range of color shades. The dentist will carefully select a shade that matches the natural teeth. The veneer can fit nicely into the person’s mouth and complement the smile.

Now it is your turn

There are many reasons to consider getting veneers. If you are not happy with your smile, visit your dentist and discuss whether you are a good candidate for this treatment. You can see how the veneer has changed over the decades. Dentists have effective tools and methods to place quality veneers in your mouth to revitalize the way you look.

Request an appointment here: https://sexton-dental.com or call Sexton Dental at (740) 363-2080 for an appointment in our Delaware office.

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