The Risks of Following TikTok Dental Trends
In today's digital age, platforms like TikTok are awash with tips on everything imaginable, including dental care. While TikTok is entertaining, it's crucial to approach dental trends featured on the platform with caution. Let's explore why these trends can be hazardous and what measures you can take to safeguard your smile.
Potential for Tooth Damage
You've likely come across TikTok videos featuring people vigorously brushing their teeth with substances like activated charcoal. It might look intriguing, especially when they flash a seemingly brighter smile afterwards. However, using abrasive materials or potent chemicals can damage your enamel—the outer layer of your teeth. Such damage can lead to sensitivity and may have permanent negative effects.
Activated charcoal, although popular, can erode your enamel over time. Worse yet, it may not even remove stains effectively and could even result in a greyish tint.
Absence of Expert Guidance
A significant downside to TikTok dental trends is the absence of professional advice. Dentists are well-versed in dental health, and attempting DIY dental care without consulting them can lead to unwanted outcomes.
For instance, you'll find suggestions to use baking soda or lemon juice as natural teeth whiteners. While these substances can have whitening effects, improper use can result in tooth damage, increased sensitivity, cavities, or even tooth fractures.
Unreliable Information
The fast-paced nature of TikTok allows trends and misinformation to go viral quickly. Before trying out any viral dental hacks, it's vital to verify their authenticity. Following misguided advice can result in severe damage to your dental health.
Case in point: some TikTokers advocate the use of "gap bands" to close spaces between teeth. These bands exert pressure on your teeth but using them without professional supervision can lead to misalignment, gum damage, or even tooth loss.
Individual Dental Needs
Your dental needs are unique. TikTok trends often generalise, assuming all teeth have the same requirements. Following these trends without considering your own dental profile could lead to complications.
For example, certain teeth-whitening hacks may not be suitable for those with sensitive teeth. Though initially more affordable, the cost of rectifying complications later could be far higher.
Summary
While TikTok dental trends may appear intriguing, your dental health should always come first. Your smile is invaluable, and you should heed advice only from qualified professionals. If you're aiming to enhance your smile, look no further than MySweetSmile, honoured as 2023's best teeth-whitening brand (The Independent). Our dentist-approved and effective solutions don't just stop at teeth whitening; we offer oral care products and are committed to expanding our selection to cater to all your oral health needs.