Don’t DIY Your Smile!

Viral dental “hacks” on social media, like charcoal toothpaste, DIY veneers, and oil-pulling, which often promise quick results but can cause permanent damage to teeth and gums. Some of these trends include:

Charcoal Toothpaste: 

• abrasive and can wear down enamel, leading to sensitivity and dull-looking teeth

• often lacks fluoride and is not ADA-approved

Recommended Alternative:

Professional whitening with a gentle fluoride toothpaste

DIY Veneers and Bonding Kits: 

• use substandard materials and can cause gum irritation, bite problems, or irreversible tooth damage

• can permanently harm your enamel by filing their teeth

Recommended Alternative:

Professional cosmetic dentistry that involves detailed planning, including radiographs, impressions and customization

Social Media-Endorsed and Natural Toothpastes:

• often overpriced and lack proven benefits

• some contain harmful abrasives or unregulated ingredients

• many “natural” pastes don’t contain fluoride, which is essential for preventing decay

Recommended Alternative:

A simple ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste and soft toothbrush

Over-the-Counter Nightguards:

• may not fit properly, causing jaw issues and failing to address underlying causes of teeth grinding like stress or misalignment.

Recommended Alternative:

Custom-fabricated nightguards that are molded to your teeth

Oil-Pulling:

• though based on traditional practices, lacks strong scientific backing

• doesn’t replace brushing or flossing and poses potential choking hazards

Always ask your dental professional before introducing something new to your dental hygiene routine in order to have the healthiest and best smile possible!

Source: https://issuu.com/agddentist/docs/agd_impact_october_2025/s/114946398