A tide is turning when it comes to veneers. What was once the go-to dental treatment to achieve the “perfect” white smile is slowly becoming a beauty ick. “There is no question that the natural look is the flavor of the moment,” says Jon Marashi, DDS, a Los Angeles-based cosmetic dentist. “There was a long stretch where people were looking a more noticeable look; this concept of big, white veneers as a status symbol. But the pendulum has swung back completely in the opposite direction.”

This new anti-veneer movement is similar to people’s shift towards filler: many are starting to be turned off by the obvious fake-looking appearance. TikToks, such as Sara Hahn’s, a doctor of dental medicine, viral account @veneercheck, are now dedicated to dissecting and analyzing the supposed celebrity dental work (most, if not all, are speculated) and celebrities such as Cynthia Erivo, Ayo Edebiri, and Kirsten Dunst have been vocal about—and celebrated for—wanting to keep their teeth as natural as possible.

But Dr. Marashi sees clients still wanting some work done on their teeth, just as long as it’s undetectable. “People who might have considered veneers in the past [and] who have great teeth to begin with might be pulling back because it’s more want-based as opposed to need-based,” he says. “They might be realizing that big, bright, white veneers have become a faux pas in a way. So they’re either appreciating what they have or they’re opting for more conservative enhancements such as invisible aligners, whitening, or both.”

So, whether you opt for more natural-looking treatments or want to fully embrace any gaps, crookedness, or perceived “imperfections” with your smile, it’s always about what you’re most comfortable with. But should you be inclined to do the latter, look to some of our favorite celebs for inspo.

Aimee Lee Wood

Steve Granitz