“Got a bag and fixed my teeth.” “Not the big cheap teeth that’s embarrassing.” Beyond belonging to some of the biggest hip-hop hits released in recent years, these lyrics also signify one of the biggest aesthetic shifts to hit the front-facing forces of the Black entertainment industry in decades: veneers. Now, the practice of shaving down your natural teeth to then mold an artificial tooth, typically compromised of either porcelain or a composite synthetic resin, has been around for nearly a century. But recently, there has been an uptick in interest in the procedure within the hip-hop community. Much like a custom chain or an inaugural Chanel classic flap bag, a new set of shiny white teeth is a new barometer for status. From our musical faves like Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B to reality TV royalty like Nene Leakes , you can barely watch an episode of your favorite show or glance at a trending music video without seeing a dazzling set of veneers. Now, surgical enhancements and...
