By Eric G. Jackson, DDS, MAGD, FICOI, FASD, FICD, FADI

Social media is flooded with quick-fix dental tricks — from charcoal toothpaste to do-it-yourself (DIY) veneers. But, as dentists, we must stress to patients: Shortcuts often lead to permanent damage. Let’s break down the latest viral hacks and explain why a visit to the dentist is always a safer bet.

Charcoal Toothpaste

One of the most popular trends circulating on TikTok and Instagram is the use of charcoal toothpaste to whiten teeth and “detoxify” the mouth. Proponents claim that the black paste removes stains and bacteria better than traditional products. However, this trend is deeply concerning. Charcoal is highly abrasive, and frequent use can lead to the erosion of enamel, the tooth’s protective outer layer. Once enamel is worn down, it cannot regenerate. This exposes the yellow dentin underneath, making teeth appear duller and more sensitive over time. Moreover, many charcoal toothpastes do not contain fluoride, an essential mineral that helps protect teeth from decay. The American Dental Association (ADA) does not approve charcoal pastes, largely because many have not undergone rigorous testing for safety and effectiveness. While some users report temporary whitening effects, this is often due to the abrasive nature of the product removing surface stains — along with protective enamel.(1) A safer and more effective option is professional whitening under dental supervision, coupled with the use of a gentle fluoride toothpaste.

DIY Composite Veneers (Cheap Kits)

Another hazardous trend gaining popularity on platforms like Facebook and YouTube is DIY composite veneer kits. These kits promise a Hollywood smile at a fraction of the cost of professional treatment, but they are riddled with dangers. The materials included in these kits are typically substandard and fail to bond properly with natural teeth. The results are not only unesthetic but also structurally unsound. Poorly fitted veneers can cause gum irritation, misalignment of the bite and even infection. There are reported cases of these temporary veneers detaching while eating or speaking, sometimes leading to choking hazards. More alarmingly, incorrect application can result in irreversible damage to the underlying tooth structure. Some users attempt to file down their teeth to fit these veneers, which significantly increases the risk of sensitivity and decay. Unlike over-the-counter kits, professional veneers involve detailed planning, including radiographs, impressions and customization to suit each patient’s mouth. This ensures not only a beautiful smile, but also a healthy one.

Social Media–Sponsored Toothpaste

Scrolling through Instagram or TikTok, it’s easy to be lured by influencers promoting pricey, esthetically pleasing toothpaste brands.(2) These products often claim to offer superior whitening, enamel strengthening or sensitivity relief. However, independent studies and dental experts have found that many of these costly pastes offer no additional benefits compared with standard fluoride toothpaste.(3) In some cases, they may even be harmful. Certain formulations include intense abrasives or unregulated ingredients that can irritate the gums or weaken enamel. Furthermore, the marketing around these toothpastes can be misleading. Just because a toothpaste is endorsed by a celebrity or social media personality doesn’t mean it’s been clinically tested or approved by dental associations. Consumers end up paying more for style than substance. For effective daily care, a simple ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste used with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day is more than sufficient.

‘Natural’ Toothpastes

The trend toward “all-natural” products has extended into oral care, with many social media posts touting the benefits of herbal toothpastes, baking soda mixtures and other homemade remedies. While the idea of avoiding synthetic chemicals may seem appealing, natural doesn’t always mean safe. Many of these alternatives lack fluoride, which remains one of the most critical ingredients in preventing tooth decay. Additionally, unregulated abrasives like baking soda or sea salt can erode enamel when used frequently or improperly. Some natural ingredients can also trigger allergic reactions or cause gum irritation in sensitive individuals. Unlike regulated dental products, these natural mixtures are not tested for safety or efficacy. It is important to remember that the mouth is a delicate environment requiring balanced care. Opting for reputable, fluoride-based toothpaste brands that have passed clinical evaluations is a far better route for maintaining long-term oral health.

Long-Term Use of Over-the-Counter Nightguards

Many patients suffering from bruxism turn to over-the-counter (OTC) nightguards available at pharmacies. These boil-and-bite guards are widely promoted on social media as affordable alternatives to custom-made ones from the dentist. While OTC guards may offer short-term relief, they are not designed for long-term use. These products typically do not fit well, leading to uneven pressure distribution, which can exacerbate jaw pain and even misalign the bite. Additionally, the materials used in these generic guards are less durable, often wearing out in just a few months. Hygiene is another major concern, as soft OTC guards can be difficult to clean thoroughly and can harbor bacteria. Perhaps most critically, using an OTC guard masks the symptoms without addressing the underlying cause of the teeth grinding, such as stress, sleep disorders or alignment issues. Custom-fabricated nightguards from a dentist are molded to patients’ teeth, offering superior comfort, protection and longevity. They also allow a dentist to monitor changes and adjust treatment as needed.

DIY Bonding

Some social media influencers have begun promoting DIY tooth-bonding kits to repair chips or close gaps. These kits typically include a resin material and basic application tools, claiming you can perform cosmetic dentistry from home. Unfortunately, the risks far outweigh the benefits. The resins used in these kits are not as strong or long-lasting as professional materials. More importantly, most users lack the training to properly prepare the tooth surface, apply the bonding agent evenly or polish the final result. The outcome is often unsightly, uneven and structurally weak. Improper application can trap food particles and bacteria, leading to decay or gum inflammation. Furthermore, attempting to remove or redo the bonding at home may result in damage to the tooth enamel. In contrast, professional bonding performed by a dentist involves careful surface preparation, precise resin sculpting and thorough curing, ensuring both esthetic appeal and functional durability.

Oil-Pulling

Oil-pulling is a trend rooted in ancient Ayurvedic medicine that has found new life on platforms like TikTok. The practice involves swishing oil — typically coconut or sesame — in the mouth for 10 to 20 minutes to “pull out” toxins and bacteria. Enthusiasts claim it whitens teeth, reduces plaque and improves overall oral health. While limited studies suggest oil-pulling may reduce certain types of oral bacteria, the evidence is neither robust nor conclusive.(4) Moreover, oil-pulling should never replace brushing and flossing. It does not remove plaque effectively and lacks fluoride, which is crucial for cavity prevention. The extended swishing time also poses a choking hazard or risk of aspiration, especially for children or individuals with swallowing difficulties. For those who enjoy oil-pulling, it may be used as a supplemental practice, but it should not be viewed as a substitute for traditional dental hygiene methods.

Final Word: Your Smile Isn’t a TikTok Trend

The allure of viral dental hacks is understandable: cheaper, faster and seemingly convenient. But professional dental care is irreplaceable. It’s not just about esthetics — it’s about long-term health. These social media trends often provide superficial solutions while masking underlying problems. Enamel once lost cannot be regained. Infections can become systemic. And untreated dental issues can lead to expensive and invasive treatments down the line. What should patients do instead? Visit their dentist regularly for professional cleanings, evaluations and personalized care. Ask providers about safe whitening options, nightguards and cosmetic procedures. Stick to tried-and-true practices like brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily and maintaining a balanced diet. And, most importantly, be skeptical of anything that promises too much with too little effort. Your oral health is too important to be left to trends. Trust professionals, not influencers. Smiles are investments, not fads. Protect them wisely.

Eric G. Jackson, DDS, MAGD, FICOI, FASD, FICD, FADI, owns and operates Jackson Family Dentistry in Downers Grove, Illinois. To comment on this article, email impact@agd.org.

References

1. Tomás, D.B.M., M.P. Pecci-Lloret and J Guerrero-Gironés. “Effectiveness and Abrasiveness of Activated Charcoal as a Whitening Agent: A Systematic Review of In Vitro Studies.” Annals of Anatomy, Jan. 2023, vol. 245, no. 151998.

2. Al-Khalifa, Khalifa S., et al. “Instagram's Impact on Dental Consumers: Analyzing Toothpaste Hashtags.” Frontiers in Oral Health, 7 Jan. 2025, vol. 5, no. 1420500.

3. Marinho, Valeria C.C., et al. “One Topical Fluoride (Toothpastes, or Mouthrinses, or Gels, or Varnishes) Versus Another for Preventing Dental Caries in Children and Adolescents.” Cochrane Database Systematic Reviews, 26 Jan. 2004, no. 1, p. CD002780.

4. Peng, Tzu-Rong, et al. “Effectiveness of Oil Pulling for Improving Oral Health: A Meta-Analysis.” Healthcare (Basel), 11 Oct. 2022, vol. 10, no. 10, p. 1991.