by Pinellas Park, Florida – Authorities have arrested a Florida woman accused of performing dentistry without a license, allegedly putting patients at risk by using nail glue to attach veneers. Emely Martinez, 35, faces multiple charges, including practicing dentistry without a license in Pinellas and Hillsborough counties, as well as a scheme to defraud.
Martinez allegedly operated under the social media alias “Itsthe Veneerlady”, offering veneer services at prices far below those charged by licensed professionals. However, her work reportedly caused serious harm, forcing patients to seek emergency dental care.
How the Scam Operated
According to a probable cause affidavit reviewed by Law&Crime, Martinez advertised veneer procedures on social media platforms, claiming professional expertise she did not have.
- In one case, a patient suffered pain and injury after Martinez incorrectly applied the veneers. A licensed dentist later performed emergency dental surgery to save the patient’s natural teeth and discovered that Martinez had used nail glue to attach the veneers.
- In another case, a victim paid $1,600 for veneers that kept falling out. Martinez allegedly attempted to replace the veneers twice, but the problem persisted. She refused to issue a refund and eventually ceased all contact with the patient, leading to a scheme to defraud charge.
Martinez reportedly operated out of a strip mall in Pinellas Park, putting numerous clients at risk due to her lack of training and licensure.
Legal Implications
Pinellas Park Police Sgt. Windy Vater told Fox affiliate WTVT:
“She is not licensed to put in veneers. She has no schooling to do veneers. And in the state of Florida, obviously you have to be licensed to do any kind of work like that.”
Martinez is also facing additional charges in Hillsborough County for practicing dentistry without a license. She remained in the Pinellas County Jail on a bond of approximately $40,000.
Nationwide Concerns About Unlicensed Dentistry
The problem of unlicensed veneer services has grown nationwide. In May 2024, the American Dental Association (ADA) issued a warning about the potential dangers of receiving veneer procedures from unlicensed individuals.
The ADA statement highlighted risks including:
- Infections from unsterilized adhesives or curing devices.
- Placement over unhealthy teeth or untreated cavities, which can worsen dental health.
- Nerve damage from improper trimming or filing of teeth.
- Choking hazards during veneer placement.
These warnings underscore why procedures like veneers must only be performed by licensed and trained dental professionals.
Victim Impact
Victims of Martinez’s scheme have reportedly spent thousands of dollars trying to repair the damage caused by her unlicensed work. Beyond the financial cost, patients experienced pain, emotional distress, and ongoing dental complications.
Authorities continue to investigate whether additional victims exist, warning residents to exercise caution when seeking cosmetic dental procedures outside licensed practices.
Safety Tips for Patients Considering Veneers
For anyone planning cosmetic dental procedures, experts recommend:
- Verify licensure: Check the Florida Board of Dentistry database for valid licenses.
- Avoid low-cost deals from social media or unverified sources.
- Ask for credentials and experience before allowing dental work.
- Seek multiple opinions if unsure about treatment options.
Taking these precautions can prevent irreversible harm and ensure that dental procedures are safe and effective.
Final Thoughts
The case of Emely Martinez serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unlicensed dental work. From Pinellas Park to Hillsborough County, her actions show the potential physical, financial, and emotional consequences of trusting unverified practitioners.
As cosmetic dentistry continues to grow in popularity, patients must remain vigilant and choose licensed professionals for any procedures, including veneers, to avoid serious health risks.
Have you or someone you know experienced issues with unlicensed dental procedures? Share your experiences and tips for staying safe in the comments at ibwhsmag.com.
