Dental Fads You Should Avoid: Tips From a Professional

If you’ve spent any time scrolling through social media or browsing the internet, chances are you’ve come across countless dental trends and fads promising to revolutionize your oral health. From charcoal toothpaste to DIY braces, it seems like there’s always a new “miracle” solution popping up overnight.

But before you jump on the bandwagon, it’s important to take a step back and consider whether these trends are actually backed by science – and more importantly, whether they’re safe for your teeth.

Charcoal Toothpaste

Let’s start by debunking some of the most common dental fads that have been making the rounds online. First up, we have charcoal toothpaste. While it may seem like a trendy way to whiten your teeth, dentists caution against using charcoal toothpaste due to its abrasive nature. In fact, the American Dental Association (ADA) warns that charcoal toothpaste can actually wear down your tooth enamel, leading to increased sensitivity and a higher risk of tooth decay.

Tooth Bling

Let’s address another recent trend that has gained attention – bejeweled teeth. This trend involves attaching small jewels or gems to the surface of teeth for decorative purposes. While it may seem like a fun way to add some sparkle to your smile, dentists caution against this practice for several reasons.

First and foremost, attaching jewels to your teeth can compromise their integrity and health. The process typically involves etching the surface of the tooth to create a rough texture, which allows the jewel to adhere more securely. However, this process can weaken the enamel and increase the risk of tooth decay and damage.

The presence of foreign objects on the teeth can create hiding places for plaque and bacteria, leading to an increased risk of cavities and gum disease. Even with proper oral hygiene practices, it can be difficult to thoroughly clean around the jewels, making them a potential breeding ground for harmful bacteria.

Alternative Toothpastes

In addition to these fads, there’s also been a growing interest in alternative toothpaste ingredients, such as baking soda or lemon juice. While these natural remedies may have some minor whitening effects, they’re not a substitute for regular fluoride toothpaste recommended by dentists. In fact, using abrasive or acidic ingredients like baking soda or lemon juice can erode your enamel and increase your risk of cavities.

Hard-bristled Toothbrushes

Next on the list is the trend of extreme toothbrushing techniques, such as using a hard-bristled toothbrush and applying excessive pressure while brushing. While it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene, aggressive brushing can actually do more harm than good. Dentists recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions to clean your teeth effectively without causing damage to your enamel or gums. Better yet, electric toothbrushes are the most effective in removing plaque and tartar.

DIY Braces

Another concerning trend is the rise of non-evidence-based orthodontic treatments, such as DIY braces or aligners. While these DIY solutions may seem like a more affordable alternative to traditional orthodontic treatment, they can have serious consequences for your oral health. Without proper supervision from a trained orthodontist, DIY braces can lead to tooth misalignment, jaw problems, and even permanent damage to your teeth.

Oil Pulling

Finally, we have the trend of oil pulling, which involves swishing coconut oil or another type of oil around in your mouth for several minutes to supposedly remove toxins and improve oral health. While some people swear by oil pulling as a natural remedy for everything from bad breath to gum disease, there’s limited scientific evidence to support these claims. Dentists recommend sticking to proven oral hygiene practices like brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash to maintain optimal oral health.

Don’t Reinvent the Wheel

While dental trends and fads may seem tempting, it’s important to approach them with caution and skepticism. Instead of jumping on the latest bandwagon, rely on evidence-based dentistry to guide your oral health decisions. By consulting with a dental professional and following their recommendations, you can ensure that you’re taking the best possible care of your teeth and gums for years to come.

Practice Healthy Oral Care at Edmonton Smiles

Instead of experimenting with unproven dental fads, visit Edmonton Smiles for help keeping your teeth in the best possible shape with evidence-based dental care. Contact our office to schedule your next appointment!