Debunking 5 Dangerous TikTok Dental Trends

February 5, 2025Chithra Durgam0 comments

TikTok is full of viral hacks and DIY tricks, but not all of them are safe—especially when it comes to dental care. Some trends may seem like simple solutions, but they can actually cause serious damage to your teeth and gums. Let’s break down five recent TikTok dental trends and why you should avoid them.

1. Filing Teeth with Nail Files

Some TikTok users have tried to reshape their teeth using nail files to make them appear straighter. While this might seem like a quick cosmetic fix, it can lead to long-term damage.

Why It’s Harmful:

Enamel Damage: Tooth enamel does not regenerate. Once it’s filed away, your teeth are permanently weakened, making them more sensitive and prone to cavities. (Penn Dental Medicine, 2023)
Uneven Wear: Filing teeth without professional tools can result in uneven surfaces, leading to chewing problems and increased wear on other teeth.

Expert Advice:

Instead of DIY filing, visit a dentist for professional reshaping or consider orthodontic treatments if you want to change the appearance of your teeth.

2. DIY Teeth Whitening with Household Products

TikTok users have popularized home remedies for teeth whitening using hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and even lemon juice. These methods may temporarily brighten teeth but can cause serious harm in the long run.

Why It’s Harmful:

Overuse of Hydrogen Peroxide: High concentrations can irritate the gums and damage tooth enamel. (NewBeauty, 2022)
Acidic Erosion: Lemon juice and other acidic ingredients erode enamel, leading to increased sensitivity and decay. (Delta Dental, 2021)
Abrasive Damage: Baking soda is too rough for daily use and can weaken enamel over time.

Expert Advice:

Use dentist-approved whitening products or visit a professional for safe whitening treatments.

3. Closing Tooth Gaps with Rubber Bands

A trend involving placing small rubber bands around teeth to close gaps has gone viral, but orthodontists warn that this method can cause permanent damage.

Why It’s Harmful:

Gum Damage: Rubber bands can slip under the gums and cause severe inflammation or infections. (Penn Dental Medicine, 2023)
Tooth Loss: The pressure from rubber bands can cut off blood flow to the teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss.

Expert Advice:

If you’re looking to close gaps in your teeth, consult an orthodontist for safe and effective treatments like braces or clear aligners.

4. Oil Pulling for Oral Health

Oil pulling, an ancient practice of swishing coconut or sesame oil in the mouth, has resurfaced on TikTok as a way to “detox” the mouth and whiten teeth. But does it actually work?

Why It’s Questionable:

Lack of Scientific Evidence: Studies show that oil pulling is not a substitute for brushing and flossing. (NewBeauty, 2022)
Not a Proven Whitening Method: While oil pulling may reduce bacteria, it does not significantly whiten teeth or prevent cavities better than fluoride toothpaste.

Expert Advice:

Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily are still the best ways to maintain oral health.

5. Using Magic Erasers to Whiten Teeth

Perhaps one of the most alarming TikTok trends involves using Magic Erasers—designed for cleaning household surfaces—to remove stains from teeth.

Why It’s Harmful:

Toxic Ingredients: Magic Erasers contain chemicals that should never be ingested or used in the mouth. (Delta Dental, 2021)
Enamel Destruction: These sponges are highly abrasive and can strip away enamel, leading to extreme tooth sensitivity and decay.

Expert Advice:

Never use cleaning products on your teeth. For safe whitening, consult a dentist for professional treatments.

Key Takeaways:

Consult a Dentist: Always seek professional advice before trying any dental trend.
Avoid DIY Dental Hacks: Many viral trends can cause irreversible damage to your teeth.
Stick to Proven Methods: Brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups are the best ways to maintain oral health.

TikTok trends come and go, but your dental health is for life. Don’t risk permanent damage for a quick fix—always trust the experts.