Social media has become a platform where trends come and go quickly. One of the trends also includes unusual and strange dental cleaning methods. You can find many techniques promising whiter teeth on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. However, not all these trends are safe or backed by science.
Something that catches people’s eyes the most is odd teeth whitening methods. With professional procedures costing a few thousand dollars, people try out these DIY hacks and end up hurting their teeth even more. Many trends are promoted by social media influencers who may not have the dental expertise to recommend safe treatments.
This blog will cover the top five dental cleaning trends currently popular online and what dental experts say about them. Remember that a healthy, whiter, and bright smile comes from consistent care and visiting a dentist regularly. Before you try out a trend suggested by a trusted friend, it is best to consult with a Glen Ridge, NJ dentist.
Top 4 weirdest dental cleaning trends on social media
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Whitening with magic erasers.
Using magic erasers to whiten teeth has become a popular trend on social media. Many people are attracted to this idea because of videos showing quick results. The sponges in these erasers are used for cleaning surfaces like walls. Here, they are being used on the teeth. This method is not safe and can harm your teeth. The material can scrape away your enamel.
Dentists strongly advise against this trend. Instead, they suggest safer options like professional whitening treatments or products approved for dental use. Quick fixes like magic erasers may seem tempting, but they can lead to serious and lasting damage.
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DIY toothpaste recipes.
DIY toothpaste has become a big trend on social media. Many people think that homemade mixtures are more natural and healthier than store-bought toothpaste. These recipes often include ingredients like baking soda, charcoal, coconut oil, and turmeric. The idea of avoiding chemicals and using kitchen ingredients seems appealing, which is why people are doing it.
However, DIY toothpaste can cause several problems to your harm. Baking soda has a high pH, and using it regularly can result in a pH imbalance in your mouth. Moreover, baking soda can be very rough on your teeth. Dental experts recommend sticking with FDA-approved toothpaste and one that contains fluoride.
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Filing teeth with a nail file.
This trend is a particularly concerning one where people use nail files to reshape uneven or chipped teeth at home. There are viral videos showing quick “fixes,” where the creators of the video shape their own teeth. Filing your teeth at home with a nail file is the biggest mistake. It removes the enamel from your teeth and leads to permanent damage.
Dentists strongly suggest against these methods. Instead, they recommend cosmetic contouring, which reshapes teeth without harming the enamel. You can also go for veneers to improve the overall look of your smile along with fixing your tooth chips and cracks.
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Removing plaque with sharp objects.
This trend is particularly troubling when people attempt to remove plaque from their teeth using sharp objects, like tweezers, needles, or safety pins. Using sharp tools on your teeth is extremely risky. Sharp objects can cut or irritate your gums and scraping teeth improperly can damage enamel. Moreover, these methods do not remove plaque and tartar completely.
Dentists warn against these methods. The tools used in dental clinics safely and effectively remove plaque and tartar. They do not pose a danger to your gums and enamel. Not only that but cleanings can reveal oral health problems when they are still in their early stages.
Don’t fall for these dental trends!
While the idea of meeting your dental needs at home at a cheaper cost is appealing, you might have to spend even more later. Visit your dentist for a professional cleaning today!
