With the rise of social media influencers and viral dental hacks, many people are misled about their oral health. From unlicensed veneer techs ruining smiles to conflicting information about brushing, flossing, and mouthwash routines, its hard to know what’s fact or fiction.

This episode answers the most Googled and most TikTok-viral questions, including:

• Are porcelain veneers really worth the cost?
• Do I have to shave my teeth into little nubs for veneers?
• Can I get veneers if my teeth are already healthy?
• Does oil pulling actually work, or is it just another TikTok trend?
• What is the correct order: floss, mouthwash, or brushing first?
• How can you spot a fake dentist before it’s too late?

6 Key Takeaways:

1. Porcelain vs. Composite Veneers: Porcelain lasts 10-20 years, is stain-resistant, and provides a natural look, while composite lasts 2-3 years and stains easily. Porcelain is the better long-term investment.

2.  No-Drill Veneers Exist! If your teeth are well-aligned, you may qualify for no-prep veneers, which don’t require shaving down your teeth.

3. Avoid Unlicensed “Veneer Techs”! Many fake dentists are performing illegal procedures, leading to infections, botched smiles, and permanent damage—always verify a dentist’s license before booking.

4. Oil Pulling: Trend or Truth? Oil pulling with fractionated coconut oil (like Guru Nanda) can help with gum health and bacteria reduction, but it shouldn’t replace brushing and flossing.

5. The Correct Oral Hygiene Routine: Floss first → Mouthwash → Brush (and don’t rinse immediately after brushing!)

6. Healthy Gums = Pink Gums! If you see blood when you brush, it’s a sign of gingivitis or gum disease—time to improve your oral care routine or see a dentist.

Notable Quotables

“Veneers should enhance your smile, not make you look like you’re wearing a mouthguard. The goal is a natural, balanced smile that fits your face.” – Dr. Catrise Austin

“If your dentist doesn’t have a verifiable license, run! Your smile is not something to gamble with.” – Dr. Catrise Austin

“Floss first, then rinse, then brush—this order gets the most bacteria out and keeps your teeth cleaner for longer.” – Dr. Catrise Austin

“If you see pink in the sink, it means your gums need help. Bleeding gums aren’t normal—either floss more, brush better, or see a dentist!” – Dr. Catrise Austin

Episode Segments:

[00:00] Welcome & Introduction – Live from Podfest 2025 in Orlando!

[01:26] The Veneer Debate: Porcelain vs. Composite – What’s best for you?

[04:10] Do You Really Have to Shave Your Teeth for Veneers? – The truth about no-prep options.

[11:12] Fake Dentists & Social Media Scams – How to protect yourself from botched work.

[13:20] The Right Way to Brush, Floss & Use Mouthwash – Are you doing it wrong?

[16:36] Does Oil Pulling Work? – The benefits of natural dentistry.

[21:00] Ask Dr. Austin Live! – Audience questions answered.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

🔗 Porcelain Veneers Exposed Book – A complete guide to understanding veneers. 

🔗 7-Day Healthy Smile Challenge – A fun challenge for better oral health. 

🔗 State Dental Board License Verification – Check in each state to verify if your dentist is legit.

🔗 Guru Nanda Coconut Oil Pulling – The best oil pulling product on the market. 

🔗 The Best Tongue Scrapers for Fresh Breath – Say goodbye to bad breath for good!

Loved this episode? Here’s what to do next:

✔️Subscribe to Let’s Talk Smiles on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform!

✔️Visit our website at Https://www.letstalksmilespodcast.com

✔️Drop a comment or question below or on our website! Your question might be featured in our next Ask Dr. Austin episode.

✔️ Follow Dr. Catrise Austin for more smile tips! Instagram | YouTube | TikTok

✔️For a free smile consultation or to book a veneer consultation, visit VIPSmiles.com