There are well over 600 million users on TikTok, making it one of the most popular forms of social media available. People swarm to the site to learn new ways to do old things. Some people are looking for tips on proper dental care. However, you don’t want to get dental hygiene advice from TikTok. Some of the following represent the worst ideas for dental care you can find on TikTok.
There are plenty of options for DIY whitening on TikTok, and most are not good tips. The following tips are a bad idea:
Lemon Juice
One thing you will see on TikTok is the use of lemon juice as a home remedy for teeth whitening. People claim it can remove stains and is safe because it is natural. The truth is lemon juice is acidic and will erode the enamel that protects your teeth when applied to them directly. Teeth often have stains begging to be removed, but home remedies tend to be harmful. You are better off seeking professional treatment to have a whiter smile.
Peroxide for Teeth Whitening
If you get on TikTok, you will see plenty of users that use hydrogen peroxide to whiten their teeth. While this may seem like a good idea because you can find many whitening products that use hydrogen peroxide in the dental aisle, it is not a good choice. Your dental products with hydrogen peroxide have been FDA approved and are made not to damage gums and teeth.
Applying Your Own Veneers
There are dozens of tutorials on TikTok for applying your own composite veneers. This is a bad idea for someone who lacks formal dental training. There are real problems that can arise from trying this DIY dental project.
Filing Teeth Down
You may be surprised to know that one disturbing TikTok trend is using a nail file to make front teeth smaller and more even. Any professional dentist does not recommend this. Using a nail file will cause serious damage to the enamel of your teeth, and this doesn’t grow back. Without it, remember your teeth are more susceptible to tooth decay and more sensitive. If you want your smile to be white and straighter, talk to your dentist.
Dr. Sharma can help you find an easier way to whiter teeth or veneers. Just call the office, and we’ll plan a time to discuss your smile.
Sources:
https://www.carlsbaddentistry.com/blog/2021/04/03/dangerous-dental-tiktok-trends-dont-try-home/
https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/viral/tiktok-diy-dentist-hacks-rcna62157