Study of the colors and retention of over-the-counter cosmetic veneers.

The purpose of this study was to observe the tooth colors and retention of a cosmetic veneer Fiche Pearl On containing shellac and five experimental formulations containing benzoin gum and ethyl cellulose. Tooth color was measured with a spectrophotometer before and after application of the veneers to the buccal or labial surface of experimental teeth. Through both in vitro and in vivo studies, the retention rates of veneers were assessed. In terms of color difference (deltaE*ab) between before and after veneer application, it ranged from 4.3 (Fiche Pearl On) to 15.0 (experimental formulation White Plus). In terms of retention rate, in vitro test found the retention rate of experimental formulation White Plus was significantly higher than that of Fiche Pearl On. In in vivo test where subjects were permitted to drink water and tea, it was found that the retention rate after two hours ranged from 94.0 to 98.5%. In conclusion, teeth applied with the experimental cosmetic veneer formulations showed better color and retention than teeth with Fiche.