Thanks to a recent media spotlight on veneer techs , many illegal businesses offering non-prep veneer services have closed up shop. However, some have transitioned into offering another service typically performed by licensed dentists teeth whitening.

While the legality around offering veneer services without a dental license is clear (its very, very illegal ), teeth whitening is a bit of a different story.

The regulation of teeth-whitening services varies significantly from state to state, said Dr. Jimmy Londono , a Georgia-based dentist and professor at the Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University.

While some states, such as California , only allow in-office teeth-whitening services under the general supervision of a licensed dentist, other states, like Utah , lack specific laws against unlicensed individuals whitening teeth.

Although teeth whitening offered by non-dental professionals may be legal in your state, the three dentists HuffPost spoke to warned that visiting one of these businesses is still risky.

In a statement to HuffPost on teeth whitening, the American Dental Association said, The [ADA] urges the public to be cautious of services that eliminate the role of the dentist and recommends that you consult with a licensed dentist when considering a tooth-bleaching product.

Teeth Whitening: A Risky Business

Typically, in-office teeth whitening from a dentist can cost between $100 to $500 per treatment , with some types of teeth whitening services costing upwards of $1,000 .

But with a single teeth-whitening session from someone whos not a dentist running as low as $85 , its easy to see why some are tempted to skip the dentists office, particularly for a treatment thats seen as primarily cosmetic rather than medical.

Some businesses within the beauty industry, such as barber shops and nail salons , may offer teeth whitening as another beauty-enhancing treatment. And while teeth whitening is mainly a cosmetic service, the dentists HuffPost spoke to emphasize the importance of including your dentist in any decisions involving your oral health.