HOUSTON – From DIY teeth whitening to homemade braces, social media is filled with dental hacks promising a cheaper path to a brighter, straighter smile.
But dental experts warn some of the most popular trends could cause permanent damage to your teeth and gums.
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Dental experts at hellodent reviewed several widely shared oral health trends on TikTok, including DIY whitening, filing teeth with nail files, homemade orthodontics, oil pulling and at-home plaque removal.
Here’s what they say you should know before trying them.
DIY teeth whitening
The hashtag #teethwhitening appears in more than 1.3 million TikTok posts, with many creators promoting inexpensive ways to brighten teeth at home.
Some trends recommend using baking soda, hydrogen peroxide or even bleach.
Experts warn these substances can damage enamel, increasing tooth sensitivity and the risk of cavities. Bleach is particularly dangerous because it can damage teeth and can be harmful if swallowed.
Some TikTok users also recommend rubbing banana peels on their teeth. While the practice is not considered harmful, experts say there is no evidence it actually whitens teeth.
Anyone looking to whiten their teeth at home should use products that have been tested and approved for dental use, experts say.
Using a nail file to shape teeth
Some TikTok users are using metal nail files to smooth uneven or jagged teeth.
The hashtag #filingteeth has about 1,100 posts, but experts warn the trend can permanently damage teeth. Each pass of a nail file removes enamel. Once enamel is lost, it cannot naturally grow back.
Removing too much enamel can make teeth more sensitive and leave them more vulnerable to decay. If you are unhappy with the shape or edges of your teeth, dental professionals can safely contour them.
DIY braces and orthodontics
Rubber bands and hair elastics have also become part of some DIY attempts to straighten teeth or close gaps.
Experts warn that moving teeth without professional supervision can cause serious problems. Applying pressure incorrectly can damage tooth roots and, in severe cases, could lead to tooth loss.
Anyone considering braces or other orthodontic treatment should consult a qualified orthodontist rather than attempting to move their teeth at home.
Oil pulling
Oil pulling, an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil around the mouth, has also gained popularity on TikTok.
The hashtag #oilpulling has more than 78,500 mentions on the platform. While some people say they have experienced benefits from oil pulling, experts say it should not replace regular dental care.
Using oil pulling alone does not remove plaque and tartar the way regular brushing, flossing and professional dental cleanings do. Relying on it as a primary oral hygiene routine could increase the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Using metal tools to remove plaque
At-home dental scaling kits are another popular online trend.
Experts warn that using professional dental instruments without proper training can cause cuts to the gums, damage enamel or increase the risk of infection, particularly if the tools are not properly sterilized.
Trying to scrape away hardened tartar can also lead to tooth sensitivity or other damage. Tartar is best removed by a dental professional who has the proper equipment and training.
Why experts say these trends can be risky
A spokesperson for hellodent said social media, including TikTok Shop, has made it easier for people to find and purchase products marketed as quick fixes for dental problems.
The spokesperson said one of the biggest misconceptions is that a dental hack is harmless simply because it does not cause immediate pain.
Damage to enamel may not be noticeable right away, but sensitivity or other problems can develop weeks or months later.
The spokesperson also warned that viral videos often focus on quick cosmetic results without showing potential complications or the cost of correcting damage.
In some cases, the spokesperson said repairing damage caused by a DIY whitening method can cost three to five times more than having the treatment performed professionally.
The experts’ bottom line: Before trying a viral dental hack, talk to a dentist. A shortcut that appears to save money could ultimately result in pain, permanent damage and a much larger dental bill.