West Maitland Dentistry Blog

TikTok Dental Trends: Fun Videos or Harmful Fads? Here’s What Parents Should Know

TikTok is full of creative, funny, and even educational videos but when it comes to dental health, not every “hack” you see is safe. In recent years, a number of  TikTok dental trends have gone viral on the platform, with users showing off dramatic transformations or “DIY” solutions. While they may look harmless (or even impressive) on screen, many of these trends can cause serious and lasting damage to teeth and gums.

As dental professionals, we’ve seen an increase in patients, especially teens, trying these at home. Here’s what you should watch out for.

Common TikTok Dental Trends That Can Harm Your Smile

1. DIY Teeth Whitening with Household Products

Videos showing people brushing with baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, lemon juice, or even cleaning products are alarmingly popular. While they may temporarily lighten teeth, these substances can erode enamel, irritate gums, and increase tooth sensitivity.

Safer option: Use ADA-approved whitening products or ask your dentist about professional whitening, which is both effective and safe for enamel.

2. Shaving Teeth for a “Perfect” Smile

Some influencers have filed down their teeth using nail files or other tools to make them look more uniform. This permanently removes protective enamel and can expose nerves, leading to extreme sensitivity, pain, and a lifelong need for crowns or veneers.

Safer option: If you want to reshape your teeth, cosmetic contouring or orthodontics under professional care can safely improve your smile.

3. At-Home Braces or Gap Closures

Some TikTokers use rubber bands, hair elastics, or paper clips to move teeth. These DIY “orthodontics” can cut off blood supply to teeth, cause gum infections, and even lead to tooth loss.

Safer option: Always see a licensed orthodontist or dentist for any tooth movement your bite, jaw health, and gum health depend on it.

4. Charcoal Toothpaste

A TikTok dental trend is the promotion of different products. Promoted as a natural whitening solution, charcoal toothpaste can be highly abrasive. Over time, it can wear away enamel and make teeth more yellow by exposing the darker dentin underneath.

Safer option: Choose toothpaste with the ADA Seal of Acceptance and safe whitening ingredients like low-abrasion silica or peroxide.

Why Teens Are Especially at Risk

Teenagers are more likely to be influenced by social media trends and peer approval, and they may not understand the long-term damage these fads can cause. A few minutes of a viral experiment can undo years of healthy habits and fixing the damage is often costly and permanent.

How Parents Can Help

• Talk openly about the risks of following health trends online.

• Encourage fact-checking before trying anything new.

• Schedule regular dental visits so issues can be addressed early.

• Lead by example by following safe, professional dental care practices.

Bottom line: What works in a 30-second TikTok clip doesn’t always work in real life — especially when it comes to your teeth. If your child is curious about improving their smile, we can help them find a safe, effective, and long-lasting solution.

📅 Book a consultation today and keep your family’s smiles healthy for years to come.

Chocolate is one of the world’s most beloved indulgences—and we get it, we love it too! But many patients wonder: Is chocolate bad for my teeth? The answer might surprise you. Let’s unwrap the facts about chocolate and your teeth.

Is Chocolate Bad for Your Teeth?

Chocolate contains sugar, which feeds harmful bacteria in your mouth. These bacteria produce acids that wear down enamel and can lead to cavities.

BUT—not all chocolate is created equal.

Dark Chocolate vs. Milk Chocolate

Dark chocolate (especially 70% cacao or higher) has several advantages:

• Less sugar than milk chocolate.

• Flavonoids and antioxidants that may support gum health.

• Faster melting in your mouth, which means less time on your teeth.

Milk chocolate has more sugar and often includes added fats and milk solids.

White chocolate contains no actual cocoa solids and the highest sugar content—making it the least tooth-friendly option.

Chocolate vs. Other Sweets

Compared to sticky candies, chocolate is actually less harmful:

• It melts quickly and doesn’t stick to your teeth as long.

• It’s easier to rinse away or brush off.

• It doesn’t typically linger in deep grooves like sticky candies or caramels.

How to Enjoy Chocolate the Tooth-Friendly Way

You don’t have to give it up—just enjoy it smartly:

✔️  Choose dark chocolate when possible
✔️  Eat it in one sitting (rather than snacking all day).
✔️  Rinse with water afterward.
✔️  Brush your teeth 30 minutes later.
✔️  Keep up with regular dental visits.

Our Take: A Little Chocolate is Okay!

At West Maitland Dentistry, we believe in balance. Chocolate in moderation, paired with good oral hygiene, can be part of a healthy lifestyle.

So go ahead—enjoy a square (or two) of dark chocolate. Just don’t forget to show your teeth some love too.

Need a post-sweets cleaning?
Give us a call at 407-335-4600

Oral hygiene is a cornerstone of overall health, and choosing the right toothbrush is crucial for maintaining a bright smile. With a plethora of options available, particularly the mechanical (manual) and electric toothbrushes, many consumers often wonder which type is more effective. Additionally, understanding the differences between bristle types can further enhance your brushing experience. In this blog, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of both mechanical and electric toothbrushes and provide insights into the best bristle types to suit your dental needs.

Mechanical (Manual) Toothbrushes

Mechanical toothbrushes are the traditional toothbrushes that require manual movement to clean your teeth. They are typically affordable, widely available, and come in various sizes, shapes, and bristle types.

Pros:

• Cost-Effective: Manual toothbrushes are usually cheaper than electric options and don’t require batteries or charging.
• Travel-Friendly: Lightweight and compact, manual toothbrushes are easy to carry, making them ideal for travel.
• Variety of Options: Available in diverse bristle types, shapes, and sizes, manual brushes can be tailored to individual preferences and needs.

Cons:

• Technique-Dependent: Their effectiveness largely relies on the user’s brushing technique. Many people may not properly brush for the recommended two minutes or may not use the correct technique, leading to suboptimal cleaning.
• Less Consistent Pressure: Maintaining consistent pressure while brushing can be challenging, potentially leading to over-brushing or under-brushing.

Electric Toothbrushes

Electric toothbrushes use oscillating, rotating, or sonic technology to provide a more dynamic cleaning action. Most come with built-in timers and pressure sensors, making effective brushing easier.

Pros:

• More Effective Cleaning: Research suggests that electric toothbrushes can remove plaque more effectively than manual brushes, thanks to their superior cleaning action.
• Built-in Timers: Many electric brushes include timers to ensure users brush for the recommended two minutes and sometimes even provide a reminder to change quadrants.
• Ease of Use: The automated technology and typically larger handles require less manual effort, making it easier for people with limited mobility, such as children or those with arthritis, to maintain proper oral hygiene.

Cons:

• Cost: Electric toothbrushes are generally more expensive than manual options and may require additional investment in replacement brush heads.
• Charging and Maintenance: They require charging or battery replacements and can be less convenient for travel, depending on the model.
• Which One Should You Choose? With all the options available it may be cumbersome to figure out which one works best for you.

Ultimately, the choice between mechanical and electric toothbrushes boils down to personal preference, budget, and individual needs. Here are a few things to consider when making your decision:

• Effectiveness: If you find it challenging to brush effectively for the recommended time manually, an electric toothbrush may be a better option for you.
• Budget: If cost is a significant factor, a high-quality manual toothbrush can still provide excellent oral hygiene when used correctly.
• Practicality: If you travel frequently or have a busy lifestyle, a simpler manual toothbrush may suit your needs better.

Choosing the Right Bristle Type

Regardless of which toothbrush you choose, the bristle type is essential for effective cleaning. Here’s a breakdown of common bristle types:

Soft Bristles

• Recommendation: Most dentists recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Benefits: Soft bristles are gentle on the gums and enamel while effectively removing plaque and debris. They are less likely to cause gum irritation or wear down tooth enamel.

Medium Bristles

• Recommendation: Medium-bristled brushes may cause discomfort or gum recession for sensitive individuals and are generally not recommended for most patients.
• Benefits: They offer a bit more scrubbing power than soft bristles, but caution is advised if you have sensitive gums.  They may benefit patients that have limited mobility and are otherwise unable to properly brush their teeth.

Hard Bristles:

• Recommendation: Generally, hard-bristled toothbrushes are not recommended.
• Risks: They can be too abrasive, leading to gum damage, enamel wear, and increased tooth sensitivity. Opt for soft or medium bristles instead, even if you think you need something stronger.

Bristle Design

Some toothbrushes feature varying bristle heights, shapes or textures designed to better reach inter-dental spaces and gum line. When selecting a toothbrush, consider these specialized designs for added effectiveness.  A round brush head tends to brush more effectively than a rectangle.

Choosing between a mechanical or electric toothbrush and determining the right bristle type are fundamental steps in establishing an effective oral hygiene routine. Both types of toothbrushes can be effective when used properly, so select the one that best matches your lifestyle and preferences. If choosing an electric toothbrush consider finding one with a pressure sensor to avoid gum recession. Remember, regardless of the toothbrush you use, it’s essential to maintain proper brushing techniques, brush at least twice a day, and visit your dentist regularly for optimal oral health. A bright smile and healthy teeth await you—we hope this helps you make the right choice for your brushing journey!