Getting Dental Veneers? Skip the Veneer Technicians!

Dental veneers can correct many problems with the look of your teeth and turn up the wattage of your smile, but they can be expensive. Dental veneers can cost thousands of dollars if you want several teeth improved, particularly if you choose porcelain veneers. If you’ve been thinking about getting dental veneers but are worried about the cost, you may wonder if skipping the dentist and opting for a veneer technician could give you the same results for less than half the price.

What is a Veneer Technician?

Although many advertise themselves as veneer technicians, the term is nonsense and doesn’t mean anything. It is not accepted or recognized by the American Dental Association or any other governing medical or dental association. Anyone, with or without training, can call themselves a dental technician. However, most dental techs have completed training courses and received a certification.

Is a Veneer Certification Authentic?

Certification as a veneer technician is real because it means the individual completed some course. It does not mean the person is licensed to perform dental work (including placing dental veneers). It is not a recognized certificate by any educational governing body. If an individual places dental veneers because they have a veneer certification, they are breaking the law because they practice dentistry without a license. Most veneer technician classes last a few days, while a dentist completes years of dental school before attempting to place veneers.

Is it Safe to See a Veneer Technician?

It’s crucial to understand that seeing a veneer technician is never safe. The potential for serious complications far outweighs any cost savings. Veneer technicians often work in non-sterile environments, increasing the risk of contamination and bacterial trapping between the veneers and your teeth. Other potential problems include:

• Damage from the adhesive used to cement the veneers onto the teeth.
• Improper curing of the veneers.
• Grinding down too much of the enamel leads to tooth dentin exposure.
• Covering of an infected tooth, leading to possible systemic or brain infection.
• Nerve damage to the jaw.
• Loosening or loss of veneers within days or weeks of placement.

If a veneer technician botches the job, you don’t have much recourse because they are not licensed or bonded. They do not carry malpractice insurance, and you will likely have to pay a dentist or specialist to correct any problems. In severe cases, your teeth may be so damaged they must be extracted.

Who is Qualified to Place Veneers?

Dentists, especially cosmetic dentists, are the only qualified professionals to place dental veneers. There are no certifications or licensing programs for veneer technicians. Filing down or removing the top layer of enamel for successful veneer attachment requires experience and a steady hand, which dentists possess. Dr. Snyder evaluates all patients for cavities, gum disease, and other issues that must be treated before proceeding with veneers. Placing veneers over the teeth and gums will only exacerbate the problem if the teeth are not healthy. Investing in dental veneers with a qualified dentist ensures a proper fit, natural appearance, and beautiful, lasting results without the risk of corrective treatment for a serious infection later.

To discuss your dental veneer options with Dr. Snyder, contact our office at Brian H. Snyder, D.D.S. Phone Number 954-753-4101 to schedule a consultation.