A Florida woman has been arrested after allegedly performing unlicensed dental work on unsuspecting victims. Emely Martinez, 35, is accused of leaving multiple people with severe infections and damaged teeth after installing phony veneers with cyanoacrylate glue, commonly known as "superglue." This dangerous practice highlights the grave risks of seeking out cut-rate cosmetic procedures from unregulated and unqualified individuals.
Martinez, who advertised herself as a "veneer technician" at the Tapp Inn Beauty Bar in Pinellas Park, allegedly offered full-mouth veneer treatments at a deeply discounted price of around $3,000. While real veneers can cost upwards of $1,000 per tooth, Martinez’s low price and promise of a five- to seven-year lifespan were a deceptive lure. However, police allege that she was completely unlicensed and had no formal schooling in dentistry, leading to devastating consequences for her victims.
According to Pinellas Park Police Department Sgt. Windy Vater, victims have had to pay "thousands of dollars to get their teeth fixed" after experiencing pain, infections, and other complications. Two people reported Martinez after their procedures went horribly wrong, and investigators believe there may be more victims. Police also revealed that Martinez may have performed other unlicensed dental work, including pulling teeth and working on children.
This case is not the first for Martinez. Records show that she was arrested in Hillsborough County earlier this year on similar charges of performing unlicensed dental work. Authorities believe she may have changed her name and created additional businesses to hide her fraudulent activities, underscoring a pattern of deceptive behavior.
The American Dental Association (ADA) issued a warning in 2024, specifically addressing the growing number of procedures performed by unlicensed "veneer technicians." The organization cautioned that such practices have the potential to cause "irreversible harm," a warning that is tragically exemplified by Martinez's alleged actions.
The use of superglue in dental work is not only ineffective but also incredibly dangerous. It can cause severe infections, damage to the gums, and permanent harm to the teeth and jawbone. The human mouth is a delicate and complex ecosystem, and a procedure as serious as installing veneers requires years of professional training and the use of sterile, medical-grade materials.
