Inside the polarizing world of dental veneers

A quick scroll through TikTok #veneertok The hashtag will evoke a range of emotions and a multitude of varied experiences. In a video that has been viewed more than 30 million times, Euphoria actress Chloe Cherry puts her veneers on full displaywith an overlay caption that reads, “I spend $200,000 on veneers only to have everyone say they look bad.” The comments back up her statement.

In another video that has been viewed more than 2 million times, content creator Christian Chanel breaks down the terrifying “breathing veneer‘, and the fertilized bacteria that can eat away at any tiny gaps in the new teeth. Then there is the matter of him veneer sensitivity, risks of cheap veneer alternatives and the list goes on.

In case you’re new to the rising trend in cosmetic dentistry, dental veneers are “customized shells that fit over the front surfaces of teeth to improve their appearance,” explains the board-certified cosmetic dentist. Dr. Kevin Sands—who has performed various dental work on everyone from Taylor Swift and Kim Kardashian to Shaun White and Emma Stone. “Veneers are usually made from porcelain or resin composites. Porcelain veneers are known for their durability and natural appearance, while composite resin veneers are often more affordable and require less enamel removal. Each type has its advantages depending on the patient’s needs and budget.”

Kylie Jenner, Hilary Duff and Katie Holmes are among many stars who appear to have opted for veneers, which are characterized by uniformity in shape, whiteness and proportions of teeth. The main examples can be seen through Jersey Shore star Ronnie Magro and rapper Gucci Mane (Whose diamonds were made by Dr. Sands). Tori Spelling was recently introduced Her veneer experience with Dr. Sands, as does JoJo Siwa.

The rise of dental veneers as an everyday trend

Like injectable cosmetic treatments, veneers were once more or less limited to celebrities often on camera. They have since become the Hollywood smile seen on the street.

“I definitely noticed an increase in demand during the pandemic,” says the cosmetic and restorative dentist, Dr. Joyce Kang. “People were spending more time on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram and I think that played a big role. Although I don’t know of any specific studies on this, I saw an increase in requests for Invisalign first, followed closely by veneers.”

In addition to social media, Dr. Kahng—n Orange + Magnolia Dental Studio owner in Orange County, Calif. — credits Zoom with increasing demand for cosmetic dental work.

“Zoom has led people to examine their appearance more closely,” he says. “Additionally, there has been a shift in what people perceive as ‘normal’, largely due to social media. Filters have changed expectations, making people believe that certain shades of white teeth are natural, even when they are not. It’s a strange phenomenon because a lot of what we see on social media is not real. This is also why I avoid posting before and after photos of teeth whitening. Actual results often don’t match the overly bright, filtered images people expect.”

According to one industry fairthe size of the dental veneers market has grown exponentially in recent years. By the end of 2024 alone, it is expected to reach a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.2% from 2023, leaving it valued at $2.47 billion. The report credits the massive rise in veneers to the increased incidence of skin cancer, a focus on preventive health care, aesthetic concerns and increasing dental disorders.

The dark side of dental veneers

While saving a buck or cutting corners to get something done can be beneficial, teeth are no joke. TikTok user @racheeleve shared her horror story in Miami with more than 500,000 viewers, explaining that several of her veneers cracked shortly after the $4,500 full service (one that normally costs $3,500 per tooth). User Winter Blanco had a similar negative experience with the same dentist, telling her 2 million followers that she couldn’t even close her jaw.

“Excessively low prices without detailed explanations can be a red flag,” explains Dr. Sands. “This suggests hidden costs or inferior materials. Additionally, watch out for any pressure tactics that aim to get you to make a quick decision without sufficient time for reflection. Pay attention to negative reviews or lack of credentials and professional relationships.”

The doctor goes on to say that any respectable dentist will turn down requests for veneers when necessary. “I will not treat patients who have underlying dental health issues such as gum disease, tooth decay or poor enamel,” he explains. “In such cases, I recommend addressing these health issues first. Alternative treatments may include orthodontics for alignment issues, teeth whitening for discoloration, or composite bonding for minor repairs.”

In May 2024, Highsnobiety took a deep dive in substance the black market of cosmetic dentistry. Known as “veneer technicians” on TikTok, the so-called “experts” offer patients fresh white pearls at a great price. The only catch? They are not actually dentists. Some even promote veneer training coursespromises to turn anyone into a veneer expert in just a few days. At the end of the course, after a participation fee, users apparently receive printed diploma-like certificates.

Dr. Kahng advises patients to be wary of anyone who promises veneers last forever, doesn’t offer a comprehensive health assessment, talks down competitors or other professionals, or doesn’t initially suggest less invasive options.

“There should be a collaborative relationship where the dentist respects your input and clearly explains their approach,” he says. “Look at the dentist’s reviews and portfolio of before and after photos. However, be careful as some images can be photoshopped. Videos and real-time documentation are more reliable indicators of their work. A dentist with a well-defined procedure for achieving predictable results is likely to be experienced and confident in his work.”

Inside the process of getting veneers

So after all that, you’ve decided you want veneer. now what? Dr. Kahng says to start by determining which veneers are right for you.

• Composite Aspects: made of resin filling material, which matches the color and bonds directly to the tooth.
• Porcelain veneers: better known, offer better color stability and are stronger than composite veneers. They are created in collaboration with a ceramist and made to order for each patient.

Among porcelain veneers, there are also subcategories:

• Traditional veneers: some tooth drilling is necessary.
• Veneers without preparation: No drilling is needed to achieve the final result.

Next, Dr. Sands shares the detailed steps that take a patient from a visit to a celebrity smile.

• Consultation: The process begins with a detailed discussion where we review the patient’s goals and conduct a thorough dental examination.
• Friday: If the patient is a candidate for veneers, the next step involves preparing the teeth. This usually involves removing a small amount of enamel from the front surface of the teeth to make room for the veneers.
• Impressions: Impressions of the prepared teeth are taken to create custom veneers. These impressions are sent to a dental laboratory where the veneers are made.
• Temporary veneers: Temporary veneers may be placed to protect the teeth while the permanent ones are being made.
• Adjustment: Once the veneers are ready, the patient returns for placement. We check the application and the color of the faces, making the necessary adjustments.
• Weld: The teeth are then cleaned and etched to ensure a strong bond. Special cement is applied to the veneer, and placed on the tooth. A light is used to harden the cement.
• Final adjustments: After the cement has set, any final adjustments are made to ensure a perfect fit.
• Recovery: Patients may experience some sensitivity initially, but this usually subsides within a few days. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are vital to maintaining your veneers.