If you’re considering veneers to fix stained or chipped teeth, it’s crucial to tread carefully. While these customized coverings can enhance your smile, dentists are sounding alarms over a concerning trend of unlicensed practitioners offering low-cost veneers without proper training.
Self-proclaimed “veneer techs” are frequently advertising their services on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, often promising full sets of veneers for less than half the cost typically charged by licensed dentists. Some even offer training courses and certifications to aspiring veneer providers, misleading potential clients about their qualifications and legality. All states mandate that dental work, including veneers, must be performed under the supervision of a licensed dentist.
Recently, Georgia authorities arrested Brandon Diller, who billed himself as “Atlanta’s top veneer specialist and trainer” to his 158,000 Instagram followers. He practiced dentistry without a license, selling worthless training and certificates, according to the Fulton County District Attorney’s office.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin, custom-made coverings designed to conceal minor imperfections and fill gaps between teeth. Unlike crowns or dental implants, veneers are primarily considered cosmetic procedures and are generally not covered by insurance. The cost for veneers typically ranges from $1,000 to $2,000 per tooth, with porcelain veneers commanding higher prices.
The procedure involves removing some natural enamel from the tooth and bonding the veneer in place, making it irreversible. Veneers typically last between 5 to 15 years before they need replacement. The American Dental Association (ADA) has recently heightened warnings about the dangers of unlicensed veneer procedures.
Dr. Ada Cooper, an ADA spokesperson, stated, “Quality control is lost without the involvement of a licensed dentist. We undergo years of education and training to practice safely.”
Risks of Getting Veneers from Unlicensed Providers
Receiving veneers from unlicensed practitioners can lead to severe health issues, including pain, nerve damage, and tooth loss. Proper anesthesia is essential before enamel removal, and improper techniques can lead to significant complications.
Dr. Zach Truman, an orthodontist, warns that customers may not be screened for existing dental conditions, such as gum disease and cavities. “If you put a veneer on a tooth with an active cavity, you’ll seal it in, which could eventually lead to tooth loss,” he said.
There are alternatives to veneers for improving tooth appearance, such as over-the-counter whitening kits and composite materials for reshaping teeth. However, Truman cautions that composite fillings can crack and may not last as long as veneers.
Identifying Bogus Veneer Providers Online
A telltale sign of unlicensed providers is the use of the title “veneer technician.” These individuals often operate outside of dental offices, providing treatments in beauty salons, hotel rooms, or private homes. Many promote affordable packages, offering full sets of veneers for $4,000 or $5,000—significantly lower than standard dental office prices.
It’s important to note that practicing dentistry without a proper license is illegal. Earlier this year, Illinois authorities arrested a woman running a business called the Veneer Experts for fitting braces and veneers without a license, following previous arrests in Nevada for similar offenses.
Finding Legitimate Dental Providers
To find qualified dental providers, visit the ADA’s website, which outlines the training and licensing requirements for dentists in the U.S. Most states also have resources to verify licensure and check for any disciplinary actions against dental professionals.
“It’s crucial to recognize that dentistry is a regulated health care profession requiring formal education and licensure,” Cooper emphasized.
