All you need to know about dental veneers – and why Cardi B and Jojo Siwa spent thousands of dollars on their teeth
- Dentists who specialise in cosmetic dentistry describe the pros and cons of the porcelain and composite veneers beloved of stars like Hilary Duff and Doja Cat
In a world where first impressions count more than ever, a perfect smile carries quite some weight. The “Hollywood smile” – a flawless display of pearly whites – is as integral to celebrity culture as red carpets and designer outfits. But while the silver screen once inspired dreams of perfect teeth, today our social media is full of influencers and celebrities flaunting their immaculate smiles for the world to see – and envy.
“With the rise of social media and its emphasis on physical appearance, flashing a Colgate smile has never been more important,” says Dr Lana Rozenberg, cosmetic dentist and founder of Rozenberg Dental NYC.
The secret behind many dazzling smiles on our screens, big and small, are dental veneers, custom-fitted shells designed to cover the front of your teeth. Giving your teeth a gleaming new look doesn’t come cheap, but clearly many stars feel the expense is worthwhile.
At the 2024 GLAAD Media Awards, when asked about the most expensive item she was wearing, 20-year-old Jojo Siwa revealed it was her teeth. Later, on TikTok, she shared that the aforementioned veneers “cost me 50 grand”.
Many other celebrities, including Hilary Duff and Doja Cat, have also shared details of the cosmetic work they’ve had done on their teeth.
Veneers have been around in one form or other since as early as the 1920s, but recent advances in materials are making them longer lasting and less invasive to have fitted.
“As technology advances in the dental industry, cosmetic dentistry is more accessible than ever, making it easier for patients to maintain their teeth’s aesthetics,” says Rozenberg. “The reality TV surge in the 2000s also drew more attention to these procedures, as shows like Extreme Makeover showcased the dramatic transformations previously reserved for Hollywood.”
Dr Arun Narang, a cosmetic dentist and CEO at Smile by Design in Ontario, Canada, notes that while people of all ages request the procedure, it’s particularly popular among older people. “Their teeth tend to be more stained, uneven, chipped, worn down or weak,” he explains. “Veneers allow them to keep their teeth while having a beautiful, functional smile.”