In a bizarre and disturbing case out of Pinellas Park, Florida, a woman named Emely Martinez was arrested for allegedly performing unlicensed dental procedures, using superglue to affix veneers to clients’ teeth. The 35-year-old’s actions left multiple victims with infections and damaged teeth, sparking outrage and highlighting the dangers of unregulated cosmetic procedures. This story delves into the details of Martinez’s operation, the consequences for her victims, and the broader implications for public safety.
A Fraudulent Operation at Tapp Inn Beauty Bar
Emely Martinez, 35, marketed herself as a veneer technician at Tapp Inn Beauty Bar in Pinellas Park, offering full-mouth veneer treatments at a steep discount—$3,000 per set, compared to legitimate veneers that can cost over $1,000 per tooth. Operating without a dental license or formal training, she allegedly used cyanoacrylate glue, commonly known as superglue, to attach veneers to clients’ teeth. The results were catastrophic: multiple victims suffered infections, damaged teeth, and excruciating pain, requiring costly emergency dental work to repair the harm.
The Pinellas Park Police Department was alerted to Martinez’s activities after two victims reported complications from their veneer installations. According to Sgt. Windy Vater, speaking to Fox 13 Tampa Bay, victims “had to pay thousands of dollars to get their teeth fixed, and some had to wait for infections to clear” before treatment could begin. Police investigations revealed Martinez may have also pulled teeth and performed procedures on children, escalating concerns about the scope of her actions. She was arrested and charged with fraud, practicing dentistry without a license, and other related offenses.
A Trail of Victims and Deception
Martinez’s operation wasn’t a one-off mistake but a calculated scheme. She advertised her services at the beauty bar, presenting herself as a qualified professional despite having no dental education. Her low prices lured clients who were unaware of the risks. The use of superglue—a toxic, non-medical adhesive—caused severe health issues, with victims facing infections that delayed corrective treatments and racked up hefty bills. “It’s heartbreaking to see the pain these people went through,” Vater told reporters, emphasizing the financial and emotional toll.
Records also show Martinez was arrested earlier in Hillsborough County for similar unlicensed dental work, suggesting a pattern of behavior. Authorities suspect she may have changed her name and created multiple businesses to evade detection, further complicating efforts to track her activities. The exact number of victims remains unclear, but police are urging anyone who received services from Martinez to come forward.
Community Outrage and a Call for Oversight
The case has sparked fury in Pinellas Park and beyond, with residents shocked that such dangerous practices went unchecked. Social media posts on X reflect the public’s disgust, with one user writing, “Supergluing teeth? This is why we need stricter regulations for cosmetic procedures.” The incident has raised questions about how Martinez operated undetected, pointing to gaps in oversight for non-traditional beauty services.
Victims are left grappling with more than physical pain. The financial burden of corrective dental work, often costing thousands, has added insult to injury. Community members have rallied to support those affected, with some calling for legal action against businesses that host unlicensed practitioners. “This isn’t just fraud—it’s endangering lives,” said a local dental professional, urging better protections for consumers.
Legal Consequences and Ongoing Investigation
Martinez faces serious charges, including fraud and practicing dentistry without a license, which could lead to significant penalties if she’s convicted. The Pinellas Park Police Department is continuing its investigation, seeking additional victims and evidence of other illegal activities. Authorities are also examining whether Martinez’s operations extended beyond Pinellas Park, given her prior arrest in Hillsborough County.
The case has prompted a broader look at unlicensed cosmetic procedures, with officials urging the public to verify practitioners’ credentials. “Always check if someone is licensed before letting them perform medical or dental work,” said a spokesperson for the Florida Department of Health. The investigation aims to hold Martinez accountable and prevent similar schemes in the future.
A Warning for the Future
This disturbing case serves as a stark warning about the risks of seeking cheap cosmetic procedures from unqualified individuals. For the victims, the road to recovery is long, marked by physical pain, financial strain, and emotional trauma. The community’s response—demanding accountability and stronger regulations—reflects a collective resolve to protect others from similar harm.
As the legal process unfolds, the focus remains on justice for those affected and ensuring no one else falls prey to such reckless deception. Martinez’s arrest is a step toward accountability, but it’s also a call to action for better oversight in an industry where trust can be a matter of life and health.
