It’s no secret that TikTok is a treasure trove of beauty and wellness tips. Some are genius; others, not so much. And when it comes to your teeth and TikTok trends, the wrong advice can do real damage – and believe me, I’ve seen the aftermath of a few. From DIY whitening pastes to “natural” straightening hacks, social media is brimming with bold promises and even bolder risks. So, how do you separate the smile-friendly from the downright scary? Let’s break down what’s trending – and what you should be doing instead.
TREND: DIY Teeth Whitening With Lemon Juice & Baking Soda
VERDICT: Hard no
This hack pops up [way too] often: mix lemon juice (acidic) with baking soda (abrasive) to create a DIY whitening paste. While it might like it’s working at first, this combo can erode enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity, yellowing, and long-term damage.
Opt for dentist-approved whitening toothpaste or book a professional in-chair whitening session. Home whitening kits available from your dentist are also a viable solution. At my practice, Bekker Dental & Aesthetics, we swear by Philips Zoom Whitening.
TREND: Filing Teeth With Nail Files
VERDICT: Please don’t!
Yes, some TikTokers are actually filing their teeth to “even them out” at home. This is incredibly dangerous. Enamel doesn’t grow back – and once it’s gone, you’re at risk of nerve damage, pain and permanent structural issues.
If you’re unhappy with the shape of your teeth, consult your dentist. There are gentle contouring and cosmetic options available, without ruining your enamel.
READ MORE: The Surprising Way Your Menstrual Cycle Affects Your Smile
TREND: Using Magic Erasers To Clean Teeth
VERDICT: Terrifying
Magic erasers are made of melamine foam, a harsh chemical abrasive meant for cleaning walls, not your teeth. Some influencers claim it whitens teeth instantly, but it can destroy enamel and expose sensitive inner layers of your teeth.
There’s no quick fix worth that kind of risk. When in doubt, don’t put anything in your mouth you wouldn’t want in your skincare routine.
TREND: Charcoal Toothpaste For Whitening
VERDICT: Approach with caution
Charcoal toothpaste is trendy for its “natural” whitening appeal. While it remove surface stains, many charcoal products are too abrasive for regular use and may wear down enamel over time.
If you like using charcoal products, make sure they’re from a reputable brand and not used daily. Always look for the seal or consult your dentist.
TREND: At-Home Teeth Aligners (Without a Dentist)
VERDICT: Risky business
Some online companies offer mail-order aligners without an in-person exam. The problem? You may have underlying issues that only a dental professional can detect. Moving teeth without supervision can result in long-term bite problems or jaw pain.
Always consult an orthodontist or dentist before starting any kind of tooth movement, even if it’s cheaper online. Your long-term health is worth the investment and nowadays, there are a few options available to consider. So rather just start with a consult.
READ MORE: Yes, Poor Oral Health Is Strongly Linked To Serious Disease
While it’s tempting to try the latest TikTok “hack,” remember: your teeth aren’t trend-driven. Enamel doesn’t grow back, and your oral health plays a vital role in your overall well-being, from confidence to heart health.
So before you hop on the next viral dental trend, ask yourself: Would your dentist approve? And if the answer is no, please scroll past with your healthy smile intact.
Whether you’re whitening, brushing, or straightening, always check with your dentist or oral hygienist first. The safest trend? A healthy, confident, well-cared-for smile.
About Dr Bekker
Dr. Ockert Bekker is a highly accomplished dental professional known for his passion and dedication to excellence in patient care and advanced dentistry. He holds a BChD from the University of the Western Cape (UWC), along with multiple postgraduate diplomas in Endodontic and Aesthetic Dentistry. His pursuit of continuous learning led him to complete an Implant Fellowship at New York University (NYU) and an Orthodontic Aligner Fellowship, further enhancing his ability to offer cutting-edge dental solutions.
Dr. Bekker prides himself on staying at the forefront of modern dentistry, embracing a holistic approach to dental care that combines technical expertise with a patient-centred philosophy. His practice, Bekker Dental & Aesthetics, with branches in Durbanville and Paarl, is equipped with the latest technology to ensure personalised treatments that prioritise long-term oral health and aesthetic excellence.
Renowned for going the extra mile, Dr. Bekker and his extensive team create a welcoming environment where patient comfort is paramount. Whether enhancing smiles with aesthetic treatments or restoring function through complex procedures, they deliver results that are as beautiful as they are lasting.
