Squirrel teeth or bunny teeth were promoted as one of the biggest trends on TikTok. The good news is, like many supposed trends on social media, it was a fake to get attention for an advertising campaign, but other dental hacks are out there and you need to be careful about trying any of them.
The big problem is that according to statistics, the sheer volume of people searching the topic online indicates at least a few were actually interested in doing it. This highlights how big of a problem social media trends can be when it comes to your teeth.
Today we will take a look at some of the real social media dental trends out there and what really happens to your teeth when you try them.
Tooth Bling
Grills have been popular on and off for years, and cared for correctly, they can be safely worn. Tooth bling takes things to a whole new level by directly attaching gemstones to the teeth. This is serious business and can really damage the teeth and mouth.
No one outside of a dentist should ever attach anything to your teeth. Most of these dangerous TikTok dental hacks show the use of adhesives that should not be used inside your mouth, including super glue. In addition to the damage that can happen to your teeth, if the glue comes in contact with your gums, tongue, or anything else, that could be damaged as well.
Additionally, the gemstones (or in many cases fake gemstones) can break off or become dislodged. This can cause all kinds of issues from irritation of the teeth and gums to choking.
This trend is a bad idea. Even if you think it looks cool, don’t try to bedazzle your teeth.
Dental Hack: Vampire Teeth or Fangs
It probably goes without saying that most people wouldn’t prefer a mouth full of incredibly sharp pointy teeth, but sometimes (usually around Halloween) some people think fangs or pointy teeth would be a cool idea.
If fangs look cool with your costume, choose a fake pair to wear. Fake fangs range in appearance and price from plastic throwaways to well done expensive prosthetics. Gluing fake fangs to your real teeth for a costume is not at all worth the damage they can do.
In some extreme cases, people are going to other countries to have their teeth modified. It is important to know that this often happens because there are fewer regulations in those countries. If the dentist you trust at home won’t do a cosmetic procedure to your teeth- trust them! They have the best interest of your teeth and overall health at heart.
Dental Hack: DIY Orthodontics
TikTok dental trends can be very dangerous, but in many cases, that is very obvious. However, for people who are unable or unwilling to go to the dentist, online dental hacks can seem like a good idea. Many even sound like they would work when you first hear about them.
There are many claims online that you can fill your own teeth, whiten them, treat cavities, and more. One TikToker even claimed you could close the gap in your teeth by tying them together with thread. You will be lucky if the only thing that happens after using these hacks is that they simply don’t work. In most cases, these hacks leave you far worse off than you started. You can end up in a lot of pain and even lose your teeth over it.
Get a Perfect Smile
A great smile can take you far in life. If you want to improve your smile don’t risk your oral health. Contact a local dentist like Bella Dental. Our dental services can help you get the smile of your dreams in a safe and lasting way, so you can steer clear of those dangerous TikTok dental hacks and other unsafe dental practices. We proudly offer you and your family dental services that range from a dental crown, to helping with dental emergencies – and everything in between! Call (805) 410-1033 to schedule your appointment now.