Wanting to get your teeth fixed? Beware of unlicensed 'veneer techs', dentists warn

Everyone would like a nice smile. However, getting teeth straightened or fixing oral imperfections can be costly and time-consuming.

Enter “veneer techs.”

Veneer techs are not licensed professionals, and only dentists can place veneers on patients, according to the American Dental Association.

However, recent trends on social media show more people are turning to these fraudulent technicians.

What is a veneer tech?

Veneer techs are “individuals using social media to promote their services as dental professionals who can place veneers in patients' mouths," according to HuffPost journalist Phil Lewis.

"It can be lucrative, with some charging up to $2,000 or $3,000 for a full set of veneers for a few hours of work," Lewis wrote in an article on the dangers of people seeing “veneer techs.”

What are people saying about veneers on TikTok?

Here are some reactions on TikTok from people responding to the “veneer techs" trend.

Are veneers permanent?

Dr. ​​Ben Winters, an orthodontist from Plano known on TikTok as “The Bentist,” said people need to be aware of the risk of getting veneers, as they are an indefinite choice.

“This is a permanent decision,” he said to NBC News. “These teeth are not coming back, you’re not getting anything else,” Winters said. “Lip filler can be dissolved. Botox goes away. If you get implants, you can have them removed. Once you alter the shape of your teeth, that is gone forever.”

How much do veneers cost?

According to Forbes Health, veneers cost anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 per tooth, depending on where the practice is located, the associated laboratory costs and the amount of work that will be required. They’re not always covered by insurance. Insurance may cover veneers if the procedure is deemed medically necessary.

What are dental veneers?

Dental veneers are custom-made coverings that fit over the surface of teeth and are typically used for cosmetic purposes like improving discolored teeth, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

There are several types of veneers.

• Composite veneers

• Porcelain veneers

• No-prep veneers

• Removable veneers

• Glass ionomer cement veneers

• Same-Day Veneers

What are the pros and cons of veneers?

Here are some pros of having veneers according to Westerville Dental Associates:

• They improve the natural appearance of teeth

• They are usually well-tolerated

• Most are stain-resistant

• They can fix a variety of dental issues

Here are some cons of having veneers:

• Veneers are permanent

• Relatively short lifespan (compared to bridges and dental crowns)

• More costly than whitening

• Veneers can cause tooth sensitivity

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: What are 'veneer techs'? Dentists warn against unlicensed professionals