3 Viral Dental Trends That Can Damage Your Smile

As you scroll on social media, it’s easy to get entranced by do-it-yourself hacks. They promise amazing results, and there are many who swear they will improve your smile. You’ll likely see countless people doing it, so it’s easy to think they aren’t that bad to do. However, several can cause serious harm if you aren’t careful. Here are three trends that you should avoid to protect your oral health.

1.)  Filing Teeth to Even Them Out

Your teeth will start to show signs of wear and tear over time. It may be inevitable, as it can happen from the pressure caused by eating and other habits. These structures can start to look uneven, so a few people thought to use things they have lying around to fix them. You might’ve seen someone using sandpaper, a nail file, or another similar object, but this can cause irreversible damage.

Tooth enamel is the hardest substance your body makes, but it doesn’t regenerate once it’s gone. By removing it yourself, you can develop sensitivity and increase your risk of cavities. Not only that, but you can create an irregular surface that can be harder to clean.

2.)  DIY Hacks to Whiten Teeth

You might have stains on your smile that you want fixed, and there are plenty of hacks that you’re tempted to try. No matter if it’s lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, activated charcoal, baking soda, or hydrogen peroxide, they can cause trouble. The first two in that list are acidic; they can erode your enamel, causing discomfort and possibly decay. The next couple is abrasive. They will scrub away surface stains, but they will also wear down the first layer of your teeth, leading to similar issues.

Lastly, hydrogen peroxide is sometimes used as a whitening agent in professional treatments, but your dentist will make sure it doesn’t cause any harm. That way, you can show off the results you want without any complications.  

3.)  At-Home Orthodontics

Many people have rubber bands, floss, fishing line, paper clips, and a dream to fix their misalignment. These are all handy things to use for what they’re made for, but they shouldn’t be used to straighten your teeth. Trying to do it yourself can lead to dental and gum damage and possibly even tooth loss. Orthodontics is a precise process, so let the professionals handle it.

In the end, there are many more dental trends out there that promise a dramatic transformation. Before you believe them, take a second to question them. Not everything is as it seems, so avoid them to keep your oral health in great shape.

About the Practice

At Souris Valley Dental Group, you benefit from a team of skilled dentists who look after you and your smile. We are dedicated to helping the Minot community get the stronger grins they deserve with preventive care. By avoiding dental problems, we can also transform your teeth to give your confidence a boost. If you want to know how you can better care for your teeth, schedule an appointment or call our office at (701) 852-5595.