In light of recent trends, dental professionals are raising alarms about unlicensed “veneer techs” on social media. A study by CharityRx reveals that about 20% of American adults now consult TikTok for health advice, often prioritizing social media over traditional medical sources. This trend has spawned a wave of DIY dentistry content, with many users keen to find quick fixes for their smiles.
Dental veneers, which are thin shells custom-fitted to cover imperfections on teeth, have become a popular fix. However, these unlicensed individuals are promoting their services on platforms like Instagram and TikTok at tempting prices. Unfortunately, the American Dental Association (ADA) has been increasingly vocal about the risks associated with such practices.
Dr. Ada Cooper, a dental expert from New York and ADA spokesperson, emphasizes the importance of having licensed professionals involved in dental procedures. “Quality control takes a backseat without a licensed dentist,” she noted. “We spend years training and obtaining licenses before offering our services.”
Unlike crowns or implants, veneers are considered cosmetic and typically not covered by insurance. Dentists usually charge between $1,000 and $2,000 per tooth, depending on the materials used. With the procedure being irreversible, it involves removing some enamel from the teeth for bonding. Veneers generally last between five and 15 years.
However, if done incorrectly, veneer procedures can have serious repercussions, such as nerve damage, infections, and even tooth loss. Dr. Zach Truman, an orthodontist from Las Vegas, highlights that unlicensed practitioners often neglect crucial steps like correct anesthesia application, which can leave patients suffering. Moreover, applying veneers over untreated cavities can aggravate these dental issues.
Truman warns, “Sealing a cavity under a veneer just sets the stage for eventual tooth loss.” This warning comes on the heels of an arrest in Georgia, where Brandon Diller, who claimed to be “Atlanta’s top veneer specialist” and boasted over 150,000 followers, was caught practicing dentistry without a license and selling worthless training certificates.