5 Dental TikTok Trends You Should Stay Away From
October 14, 2024 9:00 am
TikTok might be great for dance challenges and life hacks, but when it comes to dental health, some of its trends are downright harmful. What seems like a quick fix or a clever DIY hack could end up causing long-term damage to your teeth and gums. Here are five viral TikTok dental trends that you should definitely avoid.
1. Chewing Fitness Gum to Chisel Your Jaw
This trend claims that chewing tough “fitness gum” will strengthen your jawline and give you a more defined look. While it sounds simple, chewing rock-hard gum can put unnecessary strain on your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), leading to jaw pain or TMJ disorders. Constant chewing can also wear down your teeth over time, causing chips, cracks, or enamel erosion. If you’re looking to improve your jawline, stick to tried-and-true fitness routines—not this risky dental trend.
2. Using Rubber Bands To Straighten Teeth
Some TikTokers suggest using rubber bands to close gaps between your teeth, but this DIY orthodontic trick can do more harm than good. The truth is, this method can cause serious damage, including cutting off blood flow to your gums, which can lead to infections or even tooth loss. Orthodontic treatments are precise and require professional care, so leave teeth straightening to the experts.
3. Filing Teeth With Nail Files
Filing down your teeth with a nail file might sound like a quick fix, but it’s incredibly dangerous. Your enamel (the protective outer layer of your teeth) does not grow back once it’s worn away. Filing your teeth at home can cause permanent damage, leading to sensitivity, decay, and even the need for more serious dental work down the line. If you’re concerned about the shape of your teeth, cosmetic dental procedures like veneers or bonding are much safer options.
4. DIY Tooth Gems
Tooth gems are back in style, but many TikTok tutorials show people applying these decorations with household adhesives like super glue. This can lead to serious enamel damage and may trap food and bacteria, which increases the risk of cavities. If you want to add some sparkle to your smile, it’s important to visit a dentist who can apply the tooth gems safely using dental-grade materials.
5. At-Home Mouth Piercings
TikTok has also popularized the idea of DIY mouth piercings, with users attempting to pierce their own tongues, lips, or cheeks. This is extremely risky! Piercing your mouth at home without sterile equipment or proper technique can lead to infections, excessive bleeding, and permanent nerve damage. Always visit a professional body piercer who uses sterile tools and knows how to minimize the risks. When it comes to your oral health, it’s crucial to avoid the DIY route and let professionals handle these procedures.
Expert Oral Hygiene Advice At Hermitage Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
At Hermitage Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Aileen Kruger and Dr. Friedmann are dedicated to keeping your smile healthy and safe. With so many trends out there, it’s essential to get expert advice before trying anything that could harm your teeth or gums. If you’re in Hermitage, TN, and have questions about your dental health, schedule a consultation with our team today. Protect your smile the right way—with professional care and trusted treatments.
Categorised in: Dental Tips