DIY Dental Hacks: What can dentists do?

It is our responsibility as dental professionals to protect patients from misinformation and DIY hacks by being vigilant and reliable sources of accurate information.

In today’s age of information overload, it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction. With the rise of social media, fake news and misinformation have become a major concern in every field, including dentistry.

As dental professionals, it’s our responsibility to not only provide accurate information to our patients, but also to counter the spread of false information that can harm their oral health.

The proliferation of misinformation and “hack” videos on platforms like TikTok and Instagram can lead to serious harm, such as enamel erosion and tooth decay.

The Wisconsin Dental Association (WDA) recently issued a warning to the public to exercise caution when it comes to popular dental health trends seen on social media, emphasizing the importance of consulting a dentist before attempting any DIY treatments. 

Suffice to say, it’s crucial for both dental professionals and the public to approach online advice with a healthy dose of skepticism.

Numerous teeth-whitening methods that are popular on social media may have significant negative effects on the enamel, which may result in long-term harm. Wear, decay, and tooth sensitivity can all result from enamel damage. The WDA’s key piece of advice to patients is to be sceptical of anything they read or see online.

“We see trends, or new fads, or advice coming from the internet and a lot of that advice isn’t referenced,” said Ryan Dulde, general dentist for the WDA. “It isn’t backed by any type of research or been proven. So we always encourage consumers and patients to take everything with a grain of salt and use your head.”

One of the most popular trends on TikTok is using hydrogen peroxide as a teeth whitening agent. In a video that has garnered millions of views, a young woman applies a swab dipped in a bottle labeled “3 percent hydrogen peroxide” directly to her teeth. 

Popular dental hacks to look out for

It is a concerning trend that as social media usage proliferates, we are also witnessing an upsurge in the number of DIY dental hacks readily available online. 

People are turning to the Internet for a quick and simple cure to their dental problems, from orange peels to baking soda. However, as dentists ought to caution, these tricks may cause more harm than benefit. 

One of the most popular hacks currently circulating is the use of orange peels to whiten teeth. Users are seen rubbing the interior of an orange peel on their teeth in videos posted on TikTok and other social media sites, claiming that the citric acid in the peel may remove surface stains and whiten teeth.

However, dental experts warn that this method can be harmful as the acid in the orange peel can erode the enamel, leaving teeth more susceptible to decay and sensitivity.

Another popular hack is the use of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide as a teeth whitening solution. Social media videos show folks making a paste out of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide and then brushing it on their teeth. 

Although somewhat abrasive and useful for removing surface stains, baking soda should not be used repeatedly because it can damage the enamel. 

A frequent element in teeth-whitening solutions, hydrogen peroxide is used by dentists under strict control and supervision. However, hydrogen peroxide can be harmful and cause enamel loss when applied by an untrained amateur.

Activated charcoal is another substance that is being used as a teeth whitening agent. Activated charcoal is a highly absorbent substance that can remove surface stains, however, it is abrasive and can cause enamel erosion if used excessively.

Last but not least, there are several social media videos that recommend drinking so-called “healthy soda” to whiten teeth. However, this is not a real product, and using soda can be very bad for teeth.

It’s crucial to keep in mind that even while these hacks could appear like a simple and quick fix, they can have negative long-term effects.

DIY dental treatments on the rise

With many of us stuck at home during the pandemic, we’ve seen a proliferation of do-it-yourself ideas and projects. While home improvement projects may be harmless, DIY medical projects are not. 

Dr Justin Russo of Russo Dentistry in Raleigh, has seen the consequences of these DIY dental procedures gone bad. “I’ve seen people try to glue things in their mouth, file things down, you know repair things many different ways. And largely in my experience, and I say anecdotally, I would say 99 out of 100 do regret what they do.”

Another trend that is gaining popularity on social media is the use of charcoal toothbrushes and toothpaste as a way to whiten teeth. While activated charcoal products can make teeth whiter in the short term, prolonged use of abrasive charcoal could lead to loss of enamel. To date, the American Dental Association (ADA) has not approved brushing with activated charcoal, and there are many other products that are more effective and safer to use.

The WDA’s best recommendation is for patients to talk to their dentist for treatment specific to their needs. As dental practitioners, we have the knowledge and expertise to provide safe and effective treatments for our patients. 

We should be vigilant about educating our patients about the dangers of dental hacks and misinformation on social media platforms and urge them to seek professional advice before trying any viral dental health trends.

What can dentists do to prevent the spread of misinformation?

It is important to note that while social media can be a powerful tool in spreading misinformation, it can also be used as a powerful tool in educating and informing the public. By utilizing the platforms to provide accurate and reliable information, dental professionals can help to counteract the spread of dental hacks and promote safe and effective oral health practices.

In summary, to prevent the spread of misinformation and dangerous dental hacks on social media, dental professionals should stay informed about popular hacks and trends, educate their patients on the risks and consequences of DIY treatments, use social media platforms to promote evidence-based practices, and encourage patients to consult with them before trying any new treatments or hacks. 

Additionally, dental professionals can reach out to social media platforms to request the removal of false information and content that could be detrimental to the public’s dental health.

We can also join online communities and forums to provide expert advice and guidance to those seeking information about oral health. By actively participating in these communities, we can help to dispel myths and misinformation, and provide accurate and reliable information to those in need.

Furthermore, dental professionals can also collaborate with other healthcare professionals and organizations to raise awareness about the dangers of DIY dental hacks and trends on social media. By working together, we can reach a wider audience and have a greater impact in promoting safe and effective oral health practices.

In conclusion, while social media platforms offer a wide range of benefits, they also present challenges when it comes to oral health. By staying informed, communicating effectively, and promoting evidence-based practices, dental practitioners and professionals can help to combat the spread of misinformation and dangerous dental hacks on social media. 

It is crucial for dental professionals to take a proactive approach and to be vigilant about this matter in order to protect the oral health of our patients.