One of the great benefits of the twenty-first century is immediate access to information. The internet offers instant answers to pressing medical questions, but how accurate are those answers? TikTok is one of the biggest online platforms, offering content in every field imaginable. Recently, DIY dental hacks have been trending. Some hacks are clever DIY solutions, while others have caused users permanent dental damage. This article will examine ten dental hacks currently trending on TikTok and decide whether they are dangerous or dentist-approved.
Magic Eraser: Dangerous
This trend started a few years ago, as content creators shared a hack to whiten teeth using a common household item: magic erasers. One reason this trend went viral is that it seems to be effective. Using a magic eraser on your teeth might provide a temporary whitening effect, but it will irreparably harm your dental health. Magic erasers are simply a brand name for melamine foam, usually used to remove stains from your kitchen or bathroom.
Here’s why melamine foam is an effective stain-remover: it’s made of countless tiny sharp ‘teeth’, activated by water. Melamine foam erasers are great at removing stains on extremely durable surfaces, like steel or plastic. But on a sensitive surface like your teeth, magic erasers will scrub right through the stains…and your enamel. TikTok users who tried to use magic erasers on their teeth soon found themselves dealing with painful tooth sensitivity due to enamel loss. Furthermore, magic erasers contain chemicals that irritate the stomach, throat, and gum tissue. Don’t use any abrasive material on your teeth, especially Magic Erasers. Instead, look for a gentle whitening agent that will protect your enamel.
Filing Teeth with a Nail File: Dangerous
One TikTok user had a chipped front tooth, so she filed down her other teeth to match the height of the chipped tooth. This is an incredibly dangerous “hack”. Dental professionals strongly advise against using a nail file to reshape your teeth. Nail files are not intended for dental use and can cause irreversible damage. The abrasive surface can quickly wear down enamel — the protective outer layer of your teeth — leading to increased sensitivity, tooth decay, and even tooth loss. Filing your teeth at home can also result in uneven edges and a misaligned bite, which may cause long-term oral health issues. Before attempting any modifications, it’s essential to consult a licensed dentist. A professional can evaluate your concerns and recommend safe solutions, such as tooth contouring, to address sharp or uneven areas.
One of the most serious risks of DIY filing is the unintentional removal of too much enamel. Enamel does not grow back; once it has been filed down, it is permanently gone. Enamel loss makes teeth vulnerable to temperature sensitivity and food-related discomfort. Additionally, over-filing or filing at improper angles can damage healthy tooth structure, potentially leading to cavities, infections, or trauma to the tooth root.
Consider other options
If you’re worried about the shape of your teeth, consider these three options, which are safer and minimally invasive.
Enameloplasty, also known as tooth contouring or tooth filing, is a cosmetic procedure that involves gently removing small amounts of enamel to reshape the teeth. It is commonly used to correct minor flaws such as small chips, uneven edges, or slightly overlapping teeth. The process is quick, painless, and typically completed in a single office visit without the need for anesthesia. While subtle, the results can significantly improve the overall symmetry and appearance of a smile.
Next, dental bonding is a cosmetic technique using ivory resin to correct imperfections. The material is applied to the tooth, then sculpted into the desired shape and hardened using a special light. Bonding is ideal for repairing chips, cracks, gaps between teeth, and even improving slight discoloration. Like enameloplasty, bonding can usually be done in one dental visit. It’s a cost-effective option for patients seeking immediate aesthetic improvements.
If you’re looking for a more dramatic change, dental veneers offer a transformative solution. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells made from porcelain or composite resin, bonded to the front surface of your teeth. They can fix a wide range of cosmetic concerns, including severe staining, misshapen teeth, and uneven spacing. While the veneer process typically involves two visits (one for preparation and one for placement), the results are durable and natural-looking. Veneers can last 10 years or more with proper care.
Each of these procedures has its unique advantages, so the best choice depends on the condition of your teeth, your aesthetic goals, and your budget. Whichever option you choose, don’t try to shape your teeth at home. Teeth that have been filed down are now compromised: it’s only a matter of time before serious issues start to develop.
DIY Braces: Dangerous
A video posted in 2012, which has recently resurfaced on the internet, shows a girl explaining how she used hair elastics to close her tooth gap. This has led to a resurgence of internet users attempting to make DIY braces. Typically, rubber bands are wrapped around the teeth, trying to move the teeth by force. This is problematic for two reasons: lack of supervision and possible complications.
A certified orthodontist should always supervise the application of braces to ensure that the braces will produce the desired result. Without the expertise of a doctor, you risk complications. Using rubber bands to move teeth can loosen teeth, causing them to fall out. It can irritate the gums, causing infection, and in some cases, the elastics have moved up the teeth and lodged in the gum tissue, requiring surgery. Loosened teeth will require surgery and may compromise the health of your entire mouth. Surgery to fix any of these issues can cost you about as much as proper orthodontic treatment. When it comes to your health, don’t cut corners; consult a professional orthodontist instead of trying DIY hacks.
Supergluing Broken Teeth: Dangerous
Chipped teeth are unsightly at best and painful at worst. One TikTok trend offers superglue as a quick fix for chipped teeth. This might seem similar to some dental procedures, but it’s not a safe solution. Common types of super glue contain chemicals such as methyl 2-cyanoacrylate or ethyl 2-cyanoacrylate, both harmful if ingested. Ingesting these substances leads to health risks like cyanoacrylate poisoning. Some formulations are non-toxic and have been developed specifically for medical use (such as wound closure), but they are still not intended for dental applications. Even medical-grade adhesives are not approved for use in the mouth, where moisture, pressure, and movement create a uniquely challenging environment.
Superglued teeth can trap liquid and food particles if the seal is not perfect. This interferes with your ability to clean the tooth surface, and the remaining sugar will cause cavities. While certain types of glue are less toxic than others, using any kind of glue on your teeth without professional guidance is strongly discouraged. Improper use can lead to damage, infection, or the need for more extensive dental treatment. If you have a chipped tooth, visit your dentist, who will use a special dental adhesive to fix your tooth. Traditional dental adhesives are designed for oral use and will not cause complications.
Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda: Dentist-Approved
Hydrogen peroxide is a common ingredient in many over-the-counter teeth whitening products. Often, professional dental treatments use hydrogen peroxide as well, due to its ability to break down surface stains on teeth. As a mild bleaching agent, hydrogen peroxide works by penetrating the enamel and breaking apart the compounds that cause discoloration. When used in low concentrations (3% or lower for at-home products), it can brighten the appearance of teeth. Some people also attempt DIY whitening by swishing diluted hydrogen peroxide as a mouth rinse or mixing it with baking soda to create a whitening paste.
However, while these methods may produce noticeable results, they come with potential risks if not used properly. Overuse or prolonged exposure to hydrogen peroxide can irritate the gums, increase tooth sensitivity, and even damage the enamel if the concentration is too high or if applied too frequently. Dental professionals often warn against unsupervised or excessive use, emphasizing the importance of following product instructions and consulting with a dentist before beginning any whitening regimen. In-office whitening treatments, which use higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide under controlled conditions, are generally safer and more effective. Overall, while hydrogen peroxide can be an effective tool for whitening teeth, it must be used cautiously and in moderation to avoid compromising oral health. If you choose to use hydrogen peroxide to whiten your teeth, remember to dilute the solution. If you do not dilute the hydrogen peroxide, you may experience gum irritation.
There are two types of tooth discoloration: intrinsic stains, which come from within the tooth, or extrinsic stains, affecting the outer surface. In many cases, teeth have both types of staining. Two primary methods are used in whitening treatments: chemical bleaching and mechanical stain removal. Chemical whitening uses peroxide-based agents, like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. Peroxides break down pigmentation in the enamel to lighten the overall shade of the tooth. In contrast, mechanical whitening relies on abrasives found in toothpastes to physically scrub away surface stains, which creates a cleaner and brighter appearance. To maximize whitening effects, some toothpastes now contain peroxide in addition to other whitening agents. A variety of clinical studies have also shown that baking soda-based substances are more effective for stain removal and whitening.
However, there may be unwanted side effects. While baking soda and hydrogen peroxide are effective, they can also be abrasive. Brushing with a baking soda paste can cause enamel erosion, which leads to tooth pain. One study shows that a remineralizing agent is useful to undo this damage. Therefore, the use of a remineralizing agent such as (CPP-ACP) is recommended after whitening your teeth. This can enhance mineral deposition on enamel, which lessens tooth sensitivity caused by the whitening products.
Rinsing with Saltwater Daily: Dentist-Approved
This DIY option is one of the cheapest and most effective dental hacks, relying on ingredients you already have. Using saltwater as a daily mouthwash offers a range of benefits for oral health, making it a simple yet effective addition to any dental hygiene routine. Saltwater is a natural antiseptic with natural healing properties. Salt water can reduce inflammation and promote healing of minor mouth sores or cuts. By creating an alkaline environment in the mouth, saltwater makes it harder for harmful bacteria to thrive.
Regular rinsing with warm saltwater can reduce plaque buildup, ease symptoms of gum disease like swelling or bleeding, and even alleviate bad breath by flushing out food particles and bacteria. Unlike many commercial mouthwashes, saltwater contains no alcohol or harsh chemicals. This makes saltwater a gentler option for those with sensitive mouths, or patients recovering from dental procedures. Backed by centuries of traditional use, saltwater rinses are a time-tested, natural way to support overall oral health.
DIY Mouthwash with Essential Oils: Dentist-Approved
DIY mouthwash made with essential oils can be a natural and refreshing alternative to commercial rinses. Depending on the essential oil you choose, at-home mouthwash offers antibacterial benefits and a clean, invigorating taste. Common oil choices are peppermint, clove, and tea tree oil. These essential oils are known for their healing properties—peppermint oil helps freshen breath and reduce bacteria, clove oil has natural numbing effects to soothe gum discomfort, while tea tree oil is valued for its strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory capabilities.
To create your own mouthwash, simply mix a few drops of your chosen essential oil in a cup of water (typically 3–5 drops per 8 ounces), and swish for 30 seconds. It’s important to avoid swallowing the mixture, as essential oils are highly concentrated and not intended for ingestion. This DIY option is alcohol-free and customizable, making it ideal for those seeking a more holistic approach to oral care. Essential oils, however, are not a substitute for dental treatment. Always use essential oils in moderation and consult with a dentist if you have serious oral health concerns.
Brushing with Aloe Vera Gel: Dentist-Approved
Brushing your teeth with aloe vera gel offers several natural benefits that can enhance oral health, particularly for those seeking a gentle and chemical-free alternative to traditional toothpaste. Aloe vera is well-known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Aloe vera is effective in reducing plaque buildup, soothing irritated gums, and preventing oral infections. The gel contains compounds such as anthraquinones and polysaccharides.
These compounds combat harmful bacteria in the mouth without being abrasive. This makes aloe vera especially beneficial for people with sensitive teeth or gums, or for those dealing with conditions like gingivitis or mouth ulcers. Additionally, aloe vera’s natural enzymes can aid in breaking down food particles and promoting a cleaner mouth. Some studies have even suggested that aloe vera-based toothpaste is just as effective as fluoridated toothpaste in reducing plaque and improving gum health. If you use aloe vera toothpaste, check to ensure it is free from added sugars and harmful additives. Overall, incorporating aloe vera gel into your brushing routine can be a soothing, effective, and holistic way to support daily oral hygiene.
Oil Pulling with Coconut Oil
There’s plenty of anecdotal evidence to support this practice: oil pulling is an ancient oral hygiene practice rooted in Ayurvedic medicine. Oil pulling involves swishing oil (usually coconut, sesame, or sunflower oil) in your mouth for whitening and overall health. The method is supposed to work by “pulling” toxins, bacteria, and debris from the mouth. Proponents of oil pulling claim a range of benefits, including fresher breath, reduced plaque buildup, healthier gums, and even whiter teeth.
Coconut oil is the most common oil used online, due to its pleasant taste and natural antimicrobial properties. No study has verified that oil pulling whitens teeth, but a few small-scale studies have indicated that oil pulling may help reduce plaque and improve gum health. Coconut oil also contains lauric acid, which reduces harmful bacteria.
However, it’s important to remember that oil pulling isn’t a substitute for traditional oral care. Dentists note that while the practice may serve as a supplementary oral hygiene measure, it does not replace the need for daily brushing, flossing, or regular dental checkups. If you choose to try oil pulling, be careful to avoid swallowing the oil, as it may contain harmful bacteria and toxins after swishing. Despite the lack of formal evidence, oil pulling can be a safe and potentially beneficial addition to an oral hygiene routine when used properly, but it should not be viewed as a cure-all or as a primary method of dental care.
Activated Charcoal
Using activated charcoal powder for tooth whitening has become a popular trend. Some influencers claim that the fine, black powder effectively removes surface stains and brightens teeth by adsorbing plaque. Dental professionals, however, warn against regular use of activated charcoal for oral care. The powder is highly abrasive and can wear down enamel over time, potentially leading to increased tooth sensitivity and a greater risk of decay. Additionally, there is limited scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness in whitening teeth beyond superficial stain removal. For safer and more effective results, it’s best to consult a dentist before using any abrasive whitening agents.
Banana Peel for Whitening
Using banana peel for teeth whitening is a popular DIY trend that has gained attention online, but its effectiveness remains largely unproven. The idea behind this method is that the inside of the banana peel contains minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and manganese, which are believed to help whiten teeth when rubbed against them. Advocates claim that gently rubbing the inner part of the peel on the teeth for a few minutes daily can gradually lift surface stains.
However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims, so dental professionals generally view the method as harmless but ineffective. While banana peels are not abrasive and therefore unlikely to cause damage to enamel, they also do not contain any ingredients that are known to actively whiten teeth. For noticeable and lasting results, patients should instead choose clinically proven whitening treatments.
Decide for yourself
Some dental hacks aren’t necessarily dangerous, just questionable. Often, there isn’t enough scientific evidence to prove that a hack works. In other cases, the benefits might be worth the risk. These dental hacks aren’t endorsed by dentists, but might be worth looking into.
Conclusion
If a hack seems “too good to be true”, it probably is. Dental health impacts overall health and is one of the most important biological systems. When it comes to your oral health, cutting corners isn’t worth it. Stick to gentle, dentist-approved solutions, or consult our dentists for professional help. Schmitt Dental is always here to help you get the right care and avoid the wrong care. Schedule an appointment with us today!