Florida Woman Arrested for Unlicensed Dental Work Using Superglue

UPDATE: A Florida woman, Emely Martinez, has been arrested for allegedly conducting unlicensed dental work, leaving victims with severe infections and damaged teeth. Authorities confirm that Martinez, aged 35, used cyanoacrylate glue—commonly known as “superglue”—to install fake veneers, putting countless patients’ health at risk.

Martinez operated from the Tapp Inn Beauty Bar in Pinellas Park, promoting discounted full-mouth veneer treatments while falsely claiming to be a licensed veneer technician. Law enforcement officials are investigating multiple counties where she reportedly practiced without any formal training or certification.

Police reports indicate that two victims reported experiencing significant pain and complications after her procedures. One victim even required urgent dental care, resulting in bills amounting to thousands of dollars. According to Pinellas Park Police Department Sgt. Windy Vater, “They actually have had to pay thousands of dollars to get their teeth fixed, and some of them had to wait for the infection to clear and go get their teeth fixed.”

Martinez allegedly charged around $3,000 for a set of veneers, a stark contrast to legitimate market prices, which can exceed $1,000 per tooth. Authorities suspect that she may have also performed procedures on children and extracted teeth without any qualifications.

The American Dental Association has issued warnings about the dangers of unlicensed dental work, stating that procedures conducted by non-professionals can lead to “irreversible harm.” This alarming case underscores the importance of seeking care from licensed dental practitioners.

Martinez was arrested earlier this year in Hillsborough County, where she faces multiple charges, including practicing dentistry without a license. Investigators believe she may have used alias names and created new business ventures to continue her fraudulent activities.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone who has received services from Martinez to come forward. Victims may be eligible for assistance in addressing the damage incurred.

This developing story highlights the urgent need for vigilance when seeking dental care and the risks associated with unlicensed practitioners. As more details emerge, the community remains on alert for similar fraudulent activities.

Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.