Veneer techs have become a viral sensation on social media, but their rise has sparked concerns from dentists about the risks they pose. These individuals, who often promote their work on platforms like TikTok, receive certificates of completion after a short two-day training course costing around $2,000 to $3,000. Despite these certificates, they are not authorized to perform dental work, leading to potential dangers for patients’ oral health and overall well-being.
Licensed dentists, who use National Provider Identifiers (NPIs) to purchase professional dental supplies, emphasize that veneer techs often resort to using non-dental materials such as acrylic from nail supply shops or kits from online retailers like Amazon and Temu. This lack of proper equipment and training puts patients at risk of complications such as infections, tooth damage, and even hospitalization.
Only licensed dentists are legally permitted to perform veneer procedures, making the work of unqualified techs a violation of the law. Whitney White, a dentist at Aspen Dental in Nevada, warns that veneer techs lack the necessary knowledge of sterilization and dental health standards that licensed professionals possess. Practicing medicine without a license is considered a felony in most states, and patients can take legal action against these techs for assault and battery if their procedures result in harm.
One case in Las Vegas involved a woman who ran an illegal company called the Veneer Experts. She faced felony charges for practicing dentistry without a license after a patient’s teeth fell out. The patient subsequently filed a complaint with the state.
Patients often seek out veneer techs for their lower prices compared to traditional dentists, who may charge between $800 and $1,950 per tooth. Dentist Ashley Brede Ciapciak suggests that those seeking veneer work consider visiting a dental school, which offers more affordable rates while adhering to proper procedures and using sterile instruments.
Dental veneers are custom-made coverings placed over the surface of teeth for cosmetic purposes, such as correcting discoloration. There are several types of veneers, including porcelain, composite, and no-prep veneers, each with its own benefits and longevity.
The issue of unqualified veneer techs gained prominence when an Instagram post of a veneer tech with a certificate of completion went viral, prompting questions about their practices. Dentists like Ben “The Bentist” Winters took to TikTok to advise people against using these techs and to encourage reporting them to state licensing boards. Another TikTok user, Tybabira88, described her experience of driving seven hours and paying $1,500 for an unlicensed tech’s services in the back of a barber shop, only to have the veneers last two days.
The risks posed by veneer techs include the potential for infections if a veneer is placed over a tooth with existing health issues. Such infections can enter the bloodstream and spread, possibly leading to severe complications. Therefore, patients seeking veneer treatments are strongly urged to consult licensed dental professionals for their safety.