Unlicensed "Dentist" Goes Viral in Florida for Using Shocking Materials in Dental Procedures

In a shocking turn of events, a woman in Florida has been arrested for the second time for offering cosmetic dental services without the necessary qualifications or license. The story has gained significant attention on social media and news outlets due to the unusual material she used: super glue.

Emely Martínez, 35, specialized in dental veneers—a popular cosmetic dentistry technique that can cost more than $1,000 per tooth when done by a professional. However, Martínez promised a Hollywood smile for just $3,000 for the entire mouth.

Operating out of the Tapp Inn Beauty Bar in Pinellas Park, she advertised on social media as a "veneer technician," seemingly offering a budget-friendly alternative for those unable to afford proper dental care. Yet, there was a dangerous catch: she was not a licensed dentist and used household materials, like super glue, to attach fake veneers.

“She has no license for veneer placement. She lacks the training to perform such procedures. In Florida, a license is mandatory for any dental work,” stated Sergeant Windy Vater of the Pinellas Park Police Department in comments reported by local media.

The Perils of Super Glue in Dentistry

Authorities confirmed that Martínez used cyanoacrylate—commonly known as krazy glue or super glue—as an adhesive for veneers. This type of glue, typically found in hardware stores, is not approved for medical use and can lead to severe reactions when it comes into contact with oral tissues.

One patient underwent emergency surgery after experiencing excruciating pain, discovering that the adhesive had caused a nerve burn. “It can expand, generate heat, and burn a nerve. It should not be used in the mouth,” explained dentist Christopher Bulnes from Tampa in an interview with Fox 13.

The toxic material, combined with a lack of medical knowledge, resulted in serious consequences: infections, disfigured teeth, corrective surgeries, and emergency treatments. At least two victims reported Martínez after enduring pain and complications in the days following their procedures. One of them paid $2,500 for a full-mouth treatment—a suspiciously low fee for comprehensive dental work.

Deceptive Promises and the Allure of Social Media

Victims found Martínez through social media platforms, where she posted dramatic before-and-after images with spectacular results at affordable prices, primarily targeting female audiences. She promised veneers that would last “five to seven years” at a fraction of the market cost.

The American Dental Association (ADA) issued a warning in 2024 about the growing phenomenon of "veneer technicians" operating without licenses. “Any dental procedure that alters the physical structure of a person’s teeth, gums, or jaws without a dentist's supervision has the potential to cause irreversible damage,” the statement noted.

Repeat Offender and Use of False Identities

This wasn’t Martínez’s first encounter with the law. Records show she was arrested in March for unlicensed dental work in Hillsborough County. She was released on bail but continued her operations in Pinellas County, where new victims emerged in June and July. Authorities suspect Martínez used aliases and different business names to continue her services undetected. She currently faces charges of fraud and illegal practice of dentistry in at least two counties.

Risky Procedures on Minors and Unauthorized Extractions

Perhaps most alarming is that the investigation is still ongoing. Police are looking into claims that Martínez might have performed dental extractions and procedures on minors, which would significantly elevate the case's severity. Although no specific charges related to these allegations have been filed yet, detectives are actively gathering evidence.

Physical and Financial Fallout for Victims

The repercussions for the victims extended beyond physical harm. Many had to shell out thousands of dollars to certified dentists to rectify the damage caused by Martínez’s amateur procedures. “In fact, they've had to pay thousands to fix their teeth, and some had to wait for infections to heal before getting dental repairs,” reiterated Sergeant Vater.

The case of Emely Martínez has raised alarms in Florida and other states where social media has become a primary channel for promoting illegal cosmetic treatments. Authorities recommend:

• Always verifying that a professional holds a valid license through the Florida Department of Health website.
• Being cautious of prices that are significantly lower than market rates.
• Demanding credentials before agreeing to any medical or dental procedure.