Viral dental trends parents should warn their kids about, experts reveal
From DIY whitening remedies to homemade braces, parents may be concerned to see their children turning to TikTok for cheap and easier ways to achieve the perfect smile. While some creators share useful oral health advice, other viral dental hacks are untested and could put young teeth at risk. What may look like a harmless trend online could cause long-lasting damage, making it vital for parents to know what their children are being encouraged to try on the internet, as the consequences could be costly.
To separate fact from fiction, dental experts at hellodent examined some of TikTok’s most widely shared oral health trends and assessed the risks behind them.
DIY Teeth Whitening
With professional teeth whitening often carrying a high price tag, many users are turning to social media for budget-friendly alternatives. The hashtag #teethwhitening appears in over 1.3 million posts, many of which suggest low-cost at-home methods to brighten smiles.
The most common techniques include using baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, or even bleach. Although these methods are often marketed as easy solutions, they can create long-term problems for your teeth and gums. Using these substances can erode enamel, increasing tooth sensitivity and the risk of cavities. Bleach is particularly hazardous because it can damage teeth and is harmful if accidentally ingested.
Anyone looking to brighten their smile at home should stick to products that have been tested and approved by dental professionals. Some TikTokers also suggest using banana peels to whiten teeth, but while rubbing banana peel on teeth won’t cause harm, it’s ineffective as a whitening method.
Using Metal Nail Files to Shape Teeth
In an attempt to even out their teeth, some TikTokers are using nail files to smooth or shape tooth edges. The hashtag #filingteeth appears in about 1,100 posts. What appears to be a simple cosmetic tweak can permanently alter the structure of a tooth.
Every pass of a nail file removes a layer of enamel, and once that protective surface is gone, it cannot be restored naturally. Without enamel, teeth become more sensitive and vulnerable to decay, compromising the appearance of your smile. If you’re concerned about uneven teeth, a dentist can professionally and safely contour them.
DIY Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatments can be costly, leading some TikTok users to turn to DIY methods such as rubber bands or hair elastics to close gaps or straighten teeth.
Attempting to move teeth without professional supervision carries significant risks. Applying pressure incorrectly can harm tooth roots, potentially leading to tooth loss. Anyone considering orthodontic treatment should seek advice from a qualified orthodontist before attempting any form of tooth movement.
Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil, usually coconut or sunflower, in the mouth for around 10 minutes to “pull” out bacteria and toxins. There are 78,500 mentions of #oilpulling on TikTok alone.
Some people report positive experiences with oil pulling, but it should be viewed as an addition to, rather than a replacement for, a regular oral hygiene routine. Relying solely on oil pulling can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, which increases the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Removing Plaque with Metal Tools
Home scaling kits have become increasingly popular online, but using professional dental instruments without training presents several risks. Without proper training, it’s easy to scratch or chip enamel, leading to sensitivity. Additionally, if you accidentally cut your gums, there’s a risk of infection or gum disease, especially if the tools aren’t sterile.
Attempting to scrape away tartar yourself can easily lead to cuts, enamel damage and increased tooth sensitivity, which is why dentists recommend having it removed professionally.
Removing hardened tartar requires the right equipment and technique, making it a procedure best carried out by a dental professional.
A spokesperson from hellodent commented:
“We’re seeing more people turn to TikTok for beauty and wellness advice than ever before, and dental care is no exception. Viral videos and AI-powered content, on top of constant ads, encourage and “influence” users into trying quick-fix solutions for a brighter, straighter smile. The problem is that the people trying these hacks rarely see what happens afterwards.
“One of the biggest misconceptions we see is that these DIY dental hacks are harmless if they don’t hurt straight away. In reality, the damage isn’t always immediate. Someone can think everything is fine, only to develop sensitivity or discover enamel wear weeks or months later.
“The rise of TikTok Shop has made this even more concerning. We’re seeing tools such as plaque scrapers and whitening products marketed as a quick route to a perfect smile, but they often give people a false sense of confidence. Just because a product is available to buy doesn’t mean it’s safe to use without professional guidance.
“What’s particularly worrying is that many of these trends are designed to deliver instant cosmetic results. Teeth whitening, orthodontics and cosmetic dentistry aren’t one-size-fits-all treatments, and what works for one person can cause significant problems for another. Viral videos rarely show the complications or the corrective work that may be needed afterwards.
“In some cases, the cost of repairing damage caused by a DIY whitening hack can be three to five times higher than the price of having the treatment carried out professionally in the first place. What seems like a money-saving shortcut can quickly become a much more expensive problem.
“Everyone wants a healthy, attractive smile, but shortcuts can be costly. Spending a few minutes speaking to a dentist before trying a trend you’ve seen online could save you a lot of money, discomfort and regret later on.”
