How to Spot Bogus Veneer Providers Online
If you have stained or chipped teeth, you might be considering veneers, customized teeth coverings that can restore a photogenic smile without more extensive dental work.
But dentists warn that these pricey cosmetic enhancements are at the center of a worrisome online trend: unlicensed practitioners without proper training or supervision offering low-cost veneers.
What are dental veneers?
Veneers are thin, custom-made dental coverings used to hide minor imperfections or to fill in gaps between teeth. Unlike crowns or more invasive dental implants, veneers are almost always considered cosmetic dentistry and generally aren’t covered by insurance.
Dentists usually charge between $1,000 and $2,000 per tooth for veneers, with higher prices for those made from porcelain compared with lower-grade materials.
What are the risks of getting veneers from someone who isn’t licensed?
Improper veneer procedures can cause a range of health problems, including severe pain, nerve damage and tooth loss.
Patients need to be anesthetized before the enamel is removed from their teeth.
“It could be incredibly painful if they’re not anesthetized correctly,” said Dr. Zach Truman, who runs an orthodontics practice in Las Vegas. “You can also go too deep into the tooth and penetrate what’s called the pulp chamber, which contains blood vessels and nerves.”
How can I spot bogus veneer providers online?
One clue: Many individuals performing unlicensed dental work promote themselves on social media as “veneer technicians.”
Instead of working out of a dental office they often perform treatments at beauty salons, hotel rooms or private homes. Some advertise multi-city tours and encourage clients to message them to book an appointment in advance.
Much of the appeal of the services is in their pricing, with some offering a full set of veneers for a flat fee of $4,000 or $5,000. That’s less than half of what patients can generally expect to pay at a dental office.
What are the best ways to find legitimate dental providers?
The ADA maintains a website detailing the training and licensing requirements for dentists across the U.S. Most states also maintain websites where you can lookup and verify licensure information and find any past disciplinary actions for dentists and other health professionals.
“It’s really critical to understand that dentistry is a regulated health care profession that requires formal educations and licensure,” said Dr. Ada Cooper, a New York-based dentist and ADA spokesperson.
Conclusion
When considering veneers, it’s essential to prioritize your oral health and safety. Avoid unlicensed providers and look for legitimate dental professionals who have undergone the necessary training and have the proper licensure. Remember, veneers are a significant investment, and it’s crucial to ensure you’re getting the best possible care.
FAQs
Q: What are the risks of getting veneers from someone who isn’t licensed?
A: Improper veneer procedures can cause severe pain, nerve damage, and tooth loss.
Q: How can I spot bogus veneer providers online?
A: Look for individuals promoting themselves as “veneer technicians” on social media, and be wary of low prices and unprofessional settings.
Q: What are the best ways to find legitimate dental providers?
A: Check the American Dental Association’s website for training and licensing requirements, and verify licensure information on your state’s website.
