With social media putting added pressure to be camera-ready 24/7, many have turned to veneers as a way to achieve the perfect smile.
But with the price of a full set of veneers ranging from $7,200 to $20,000, many patients are hesitant to even set foot in the dentist’s office.
Armed with a certificate and the power of low-cost social media marketing, the so-called “finishers” claim they can deliver the same smile for a fraction of the cost, with some advertising rates starting at just $1,500.
In an age where non-medical estheticians can (legally) perform similar procedures as dermatologists and “lash technicians” and “nail technicians” promote their services on social media, it’s easy to see why some might be led to believe that “veneer technicians” are a viable option for their cosmetic dentistry needs. But it isn’t.
Check out this example of one of the many complaints on TikTok about the work of veneer technicians:
It’s illegal in many states for a veneer technology to install veneers on one’s teeth. And three HuffPost dentists spoke out to warn that getting veneers from a “veneer tech” rather than a dental professional can have a huge impact on your oral health.
What is the difference between a “veneer tech” and a dentist?
“Certificates that claim to designate individuals as ‘veneer technicians’ outside of dental licensure should be approached with great caution,” he said. Doctor Jimmy Londona Georgia-based dentist and professor at the Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University. “These certificates likely do not provide the comprehensive training and legal authorization required to perform dental procedures and are not equivalent to the training required for licensed dentists providing veneer services.”
While dentists are required to complete at least eight years of rigorous training, pass national board exams, and meet specific state licensing and continuing education requirements, many veneer technicians may have completed only one two-day or online training course.
“Anyone can complete a two-day training program that typically costs $2,000 to $3,000, after which these technicians receive certificates of completion. The problem is that these certificates do not certify them to perform dental work,” he said Dr. Jody Dana, Texas-based dentist and member of the Board of Directors of the Texas Dental Association. “You have no way of knowing that [veneer techs] have knowledge of appropriate sterilization techniques, medication management and technique choices.’
Plus, when you visit a dentist instead of a veneers technician, you can be sure they’re using the right tools and materials to create your new smile.
“Licensed dentists have National Provider IDs that they use at licensed dental supply stores to purchase products and instruments,” Danna said. “However, there are many industries (eg nail suppliers, spas) that use similar products like acrylic for their processes as well. Others buy kits from sites like Amazon and Temu.’
Let this dentist explain it to you herself:
You still need a dentist for “unprepared” veneers.
Many veneer technicians offer a type of veneer called “non-prep” or “no prep,” where veneers are placed over existing teeth instead of having to drill or shave them. While non-preparative veneers seem less invasive than traditional veneers, they still require the dentist’s knowledge and expertise to get right.
“There are very few cases where nonpreparatory views can be done,” Londono said. “The skills and expertise of a licensed dentist are vital for both types to ensure proper fit, function and oral health.”
Dentists not only make and place veneers, but are also responsible for determining which teeth can and cannot have veneers.
“Before placing veneers, it is important to ensure that the underlying teeth are in good health and free of cavities or other dental problems. Placing veneers over cavities or unhealthy teeth can lead to complications and can worsen existing dental problems,” he said. Dr. Ada Coopera dentist and consumer consultant based in New York, a spokesperson for the American Dental Association.
Here’s what can go wrong if you see a veneer technology.
“Any dental procedure that alters the natural structure of the teeth, gums or jaws, without the supervision of a dentist, has the potential to cause irreversible harm to individuals who are treated as ‘customers’ rather than patients,” said the American Dental Association. in a press release on veneer technology.
According to Danna, the ADA states that the hazards of being unfit for dental work can include infections from improperly sterilized appliances and adhesives, veneers placed over unhealthy teeth or untreated cavities, nerve damage from improper cutting, or filing teeth. even potential choking hazards when installing the veneers.
“Without the involvement of a licensed dentist, patients are missing an essential quality control point — their dentist — to ensure that all aspects of their treatment are being performed and proceeding in the patient’s best interest,” Cooper said.
In addition to the years of training and licensure dentists receive, Cooper and Danna also note that dentists are the only people licensed to accept responsibility for patient care.
“Illegitimate technicians can be charged criminally for practicing dentistry without a license, which is a felony in most states, and could also be civilly sued for assault and battery if dental work goes wrong and injures a patient,” Danna explained.
To save money, see a dentist, not a veneer technician.
“I’m especially concerned about patients who are making this choice purely from a financial standpoint,” Danna said. “Patients who seek out veneers technicians often do so because they are cheaper than dentists.”
Although some may be tempted to see a veneers technician instead of a dentist to save money, they may end up seeing the dentist regardless.
Dentists we spoke to said that going to an unqualified person for dental work such as veneers, even non-preparatory veneers, can not only result in poor aesthetics, but can also affect the health and function of the teeth your. These complications may require intervention by a licensed dentist and can even lead to irreversible damage to tooth enamel, gums or nerves – which could mean more money out of your pocket.
“Talk to your dentist if you have concerns about cost. Local dental schools can also offer services at discounted rates, as well as federal specialty health centers,” Cooper said.
If you are unsure if your provider is eligible, Cooper recommends that you search for your provider at American Association of Dental Boards website to ensure they are licensed to perform dental work.
“I would urge any consumer out there to do your research, make sure you’re not only protecting the investment you’re making in your smile, but most importantly the decision you’re making regarding your personal health and well-being,” Danna said.
