Recently, there has been an alarming increase in unlicensed dental practices and cosmetic dentistry, particularly in veneers. This trend, fueled by social media and the quest for the perfect aesthetic, has led many to cheap alternatives, which poses significant risks to public health and safety.
In October, Brandon Dillard, an individual who coined himself “Atlanta’s top veneer specialist,” was arrested for practicing dentistry for years without a license.
According to WSB-TV, Fulton County police raided Dillard’s popular “A List Smiles” office, which had operated since 2021. The arrest was highly publicized due to his long list of notable clientele, high social media following, and notoriety for holding contests such as procedure raffles.
Like Dillard, unlicensed professionals provide services for half the price, but ultimately, the patient pays the price. Unlicensed individuals have an increased chance of not adhering to proper infection control protocols and being without the proper training to perform procedures correctly. This leads to misdiagnosis, complications like nerve damage, excessive bleeding, improper healing and long-term health complications.
In most states, unlicensed practitioners can face felony charges for practicing without a license. Unfortunately, patients who receive care from these individuals may only be provided limited legal recourse.
Dr. Arlene Asante of Hyattsville, Maryland, is a cosmetic dentist specializing in oral health, implantology and cosmetic dentistry. Blavity spoke with Dr. Asante about understanding the repercussions of illegal cosmetic dentistry, its lasting impact on patient’s lives and health, and how to avoid it.
What red flags may indicate a cosmetic dentist is not properly licensed or qualified?
Sadly, there is no obvious method to confirm if a person is a licensed dentist via social media. Spotting a fake dentist on social media can be challenging but crucial, as unlicensed or unqualified individuals may pose serious health risks. A legitimate dentist typically lists their degrees (e.g., DDS or DMD), certifications, and affiliations with professional organizations like the American Dental Association (ADA) or other national dental boards. In many cases, an honest dentist will provide their licensing number or information on how to verify their qualifications. You should be able to cross-check this with local or national dental regulatory bodies.
How can patients verify if a cosmetic dentist is board-certified and licensed to practice in their state?
Every state has a dental board or licensing authority that regulates dental professionals. Most state boards allow you to search for a dentist’s license online by entering their name or license number. This will confirm whether they are licensed to practice in your state and whether their license is active or has any disciplinary actions against it. For example, if you live in Maryland, you can search for a dentist’s credentials on the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners license certification site. Each state has a database to confirm a dentist’s credentials.
With increased access and availability to venture to countries where dental care may be cheaper, how would you convince someone to stay within the United States and go a different route?
Traveling to another country for dental care, often called dental tourism, can seem attractive because of lower costs or quicker treatment access. However, it carries significant risks that can outweigh the potential benefits. Dental procedures often require follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing or to make adjustments. If complications arise after you return home, getting appropriate follow-up care from the dentist who performed the procedure may be difficult or impossible. Local dentists may be hesitant or unable to fix problems arising from work done abroad due to differences in materials, techniques or potential legal liabilities. If something goes wrong with your treatment, seeking legal recourse or compensation in a foreign country can be challenging. Legal protections that exist in countries like the U.S. or the U.K. may not be available or enforceable abroad. While the upfront dental costs may be lower, travel expenses (flights, accommodation, meals, etc.) add up. If you need to return for follow-up care, these costs can escalate. While dental tourism may offer lower costs, it is often not worth the potential risks, including health complications, lack of follow-up care, and long-term costs to fix poor-quality work. It’s crucial to weigh these risks carefully before deciding to seek dental treatment abroad.
Why do you think people are now paying more attention to the aesthetic of veneers versus caring for their natural teeth?
The growing trend of prioritizing the aesthetic appeal of veneers over caring for natural teeth can be attributed to societal pressures, social media influence and shifts in beauty values. Today’s hip-hop culture has glamorized the importance of flawless teeth and having the perfect grill. Such as Rick Ross, GloRilla, and Cardi B., prominent figures in the culture are now [steering] away from gold fronts and promoting the appearance of veneers and “pearly white teeth.” Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok and YouTube are filled with influencers and celebrities showing off their perfect smiles, often enhanced by veneers. This creates a perception that veneers signify wealth, beauty and success. People are bombarded with images of flawless teeth through filters and curated posts, making veneers seem like the quick fix to achieve the same look. The pressure to conform to these aesthetic standards drives people to prioritize cosmetic enhancements over natural dental care. Today, we live in an “instant gratification culture” [and] veneers provide immediate, noticeable results, whereas maintaining or improving the appearance of natural teeth through regular care takes time and patience. People are increasingly drawn to solutions that offer quick transformations, even if it means sacrificing their natural teeth.
What are the main risks of having veneers or other cosmetic dental work done by an unlicensed practitioner?
Having veneers or other cosmetic dental work done by an unlicensed practitioner poses significant risks that can result in short-term and long-term harm. Veneers require the removal of a thin layer of enamel from the natural teeth. An unlicensed practitioner may remove too much enamel, weakening the teeth, making them more sensitive, and increasing the risk of decay. Licensed dentists are trained to administer anesthesia safely and effectively. Unlicensed practitioners may misuse anesthesia, leading to excessive pain during the procedure or dangerous complications from too much anesthesia. Improper techniques can lead to heightened post-procedure pain, inflammation or complications, with unlicensed practitioners often unable or unqualified to address these issues.
Blavity: How can improper veneer placement or application damage someone’s oral health in the long term?
Dr. Asante: Improper veneer placement or application can cause long-term damage to oral health. While veneers are generally safe when done by a qualified dentist, poor placement by an unqualified or inexperienced practitioner can lead to significant complications. Poorly fitted veneers can trap food particles and bacteria around the gumline, leading to infections or gum disease. If left untreated, gum disease can cause tooth loss, root canal therapy, and further irreversible complications. Veneers not adequately aligned with the rest of your teeth can lead to bite issues (malocclusion). This misalignment can cause discomfort or even jaw pain and may lead to problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), resulting in chronic headaches, jaw stiffness and difficulty chewing.
What safety protocols and infection control measures should licensed cosmetic dentists follow that unlicensed practitioners may neglect?
Licensed cosmetic dentists are held to strict safety protocols and infection control measures to protect patients from health risks, particularly cross-contamination, infections and procedural complications. Licensed cosmetic dentists follow strict infection control and safety protocols, including sterilization, proper disposal of biohazardous waste, use of PPE and adherence to CDC guidelines. Unlicensed practitioners often neglect these essential measures, increasing the risk of infections, cross-contamination and long-term health complications. It is crucial to always seek treatment from a licensed, qualified dentist to ensure both your safety and the quality of care. Licensed dentists follow strict guidelines for disposing of needles, blades and any items that come into contact with bodily fluids. These materials are discarded in specialized containers and handled by certified biohazard disposal services.
Why is an oral health exam important before any cosmetic dental work, and do unlicensed practitioners typically skip this step?
For several reasons, an oral health exam is a crucial step before any cosmetic dental work. It ensures that the dentist has a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s oral health and can identify any underlying issues that could affect the success of the cosmetic procedures. An oral health exam allows the dentist to identify problems such as cavities, gum disease, or infections. These conditions must be addressed before cosmetic procedures to ensure optimal results and avoid complications. Problems like tooth decay or structural damage may not be immediately visible but can lead to significant complications if not addressed before cosmetic work. An oral exam helps catch these issues early. Understanding the overall condition of the mouth allows for better planning regarding ongoing maintenance and care after cosmetic procedures, helping to ensure lasting results. An oral health exam is vital before any cosmetic dental work to assess the overall condition of the mouth, identify any underlying issues and ensure the safety and effectiveness of the planned treatments. Unlicensed practitioners often neglect this critical step, which can result in serious health risks and complications, such as abscesses, infection and, in severe cases, death. Patients should seek treatment from licensed professionals who prioritize comprehensive care and safety.
For individuals who may not be able to afford licensed cosmetic dentistry and don’t want to take their chances with an unlicensed practitioner, what are some “DIY” or cheaper alternatives to achieve a brighter smile?
For individuals who may not be able to afford licensed cosmetic dentistry but want a brighter smile, there are several DIY and more affordable alternatives. Finding a dentist that you can trust is the first step. Next, get a dental cleaning every six months and sometimes every three to four months. Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine prevents stains and keeps teeth healthy. Rinse after eating: Rinse your mouth with water after consuming stain-causing foods or drinks (e.g., coffee, tea, red wine) to minimize staining.
DIY and cheaper alternatives for whitening teeth can help improve your smile, but they may provide different results than professional cosmetic dentistry. It’s essential to be cautious with DIY methods to avoid damaging your teeth and gums. Maintaining good oral hygiene and consulting a dentist when possible are key to achieving and sustaining a bright, healthy smile.
Electric toothbrushes typically have oscillating or rotating brush heads that clean teeth more effectively than manual brushing. Electric toothbrushes can help reduce the accumulation of staining on teeth. Studies have shown that electric toothbrushes can remove more plaque and reduce gingivitis more effectively than manual toothbrushes. Look for a whitening toothpaste that contains mild abrasives and chemical agents like hydrogen peroxide or baking soda. These can help remove surface stains over time. Over-the-counter whitening products (like strips, gels and toothpaste) generally contain lower concentrations of whitening agents (such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide). This means they may take longer to achieve noticeable results, and outcomes can vary widely based on the product used and individual factors.
The post The Alarming Increase Of Unlicensed Cosmetic Dentistry: How Veneers And Aesthetic Dental Trends Can Lead To Health Risks appeared first on Blavity.
