Recently, we collaborated with an aesthetic dentist and a cosmetic dentist, delving into the viral moment when a contestant in the Miss Thailand pageant had a dental malfunction live on TV.
Today, we wanted to share two more opinions from dentists on the viral moment that had the world talking and what they believe their colleagues and patients need to know.
'This situation doesn’t reflect how properly done, permanent veneers perform.'
Dr. Tyler Hales is a nationally renowned celebrity cosmetic dentist and the founder of Hales Aesthetic.
Dr. Tyler Hales.
"Patients may come in concerned after seeing her veneers fall out, and that’s completely understandable. It’s one of the most common fears people have when considering veneers.
"That said, this situation appears to be very different from what we consider permanent veneers. If you look closely at what came out, it’s a single connected piece covering multiple teeth. That’s not how traditional, permanent veneers are done.
"In most cases, that type of restoration is either a temporary set of veneers or a removable 'pop-on' style appliance.
"Permanent veneers are individually crafted and bonded to each tooth one by one. Because of that, it’s very rare for multiple veneers to come off all at once.
"The only time we typically connect teeth is in the case of a dental bridge, and even then, it’s usually limited to about three teeth to replace a missing one, not an entire arch.
"So while the concern is valid, this situation doesn’t reflect how properly done, permanent veneers perform. When veneers are done correctly and bonded individually, they are very secure and designed to last."
'What went viral wasn’t bad dentistry, it was a shortcut.'
Dr. Jen Moran-Kobes.
Chicago-based cosmetic dentist Dr. Jen Moran-Kobes, also known as the "Smile Whisperer," is the founder of Water Tower Dental Care.
"This viral 'Miss Thailand veneer moment' is exactly the kind of thing that patients are going to walk in and ask about -- they are half curious, half nervous, and, honestly, a little entertained.
"What actually happened is important to clarify right away. These weren’t traditional, bonded porcelain veneers. They were more likely a removable or temporary cosmetic appliance, something that isn’t permanently attached to the teeth. When those come loose, especially under pressure (talking, dry mouth, stage lights), they can dislodge. And in this case, they did ... on a live stage.
"Here’s how I’d guide patients (and, honestly, other dentists) through this conversation:
Real veneers don’t just fall off. Properly done porcelain veneers are bonded to enamel. When they’re planned correctly, prepped conservatively, and bonded properly, they’re incredibly stable. This situation is not representative of what we do in modern cosmetic dentistry.
Not all ‘veneers’ are created equal. Patients are seeing a huge rise in DIY, pop-on, and overseas cosmetic options being marketed as 'veneers.' That’s where the confusion is. Those are completely different from custom, bonded restorations designed by a dentist.
This is actually a trust conversation. Moments like this create fear, but they’re also an opportunity. Patients want reassurance that what they’re investing in is safe, natural, and long-lasting. This is where your process, your planning, and your experience matter.
The real takeaway isn’t failure. It’s the difference in quality. What went viral wasn’t bad dentistry, it was a shortcut. And patients need help understanding that distinction.
And honestly, she handled it beautifully. From a human perspective, she showed incredible composure. But clinically, it highlights exactly why dentistry shouldn’t be rushed, outsourced, or reduced to a quick cosmetic fix.
"Bottom line for patients: If it can pop out on stage, it was never a true veneer to begin with."
The comments and observations expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of DrBicuspid.com, nor should they be construed as an endorsement or admonishment of any particular idea, vendor, or organization.
