Dentists Caution Against TikTok Dental Trends

Newsweek  (9/3, Fowler) reported that a TikTok hack suggests “viewers mix equal parts toothpaste and mouthwash in a bowl before decanting it into a soap dispenser.” The “idea is that users can then do two jobs in one…by brushing with the mixture” and “create an aesthetically pleasing bathroom with a simple dispenser to replace separate branded tubes and bottles.” While “TikTokers with no dental background might be claiming that it works,” dental professionals have cautioned against the approach, explaining that “toothpaste tubes are intended to protect the non-UV stable product inside” and brushing with the mixture could harm enamel.

(9/3, Fowler) reported on additional TikTok dental trends, such as using hydrogen peroxide or Magic Erasers to whiten teeth and “generic rubber bands and hair ties” to close gaps in teeth. A dentist who spoke with Newsweek about how damaging these trends can be for teeth advised consulting with a dentist before trying these methods.