Social media is a great way for you too keep up with many of the current trends. While it is good for finding new makeup looks, hairstyles, or recipes, it is not the ideal location to look for dental hacks. There is one TikTok dental trend spreading around the platform that it particularly dangerous: DIY teeth filing! Continue reading to learn why this is so harmful as well as how a dentist can help you safely achieve the aesthetic results that you are wanting to achieve.
If you haven’t seen these viral TikTok clips already, the teeth filing trend involves influencers using a nail file in order to shave down the chewing surface of the front teeth to achieve a more uniform, aesthetically pleasing smile instead of seeing a dentist for assistance. Because so many people have ridges or misaligned teeth, more TikTokers have jumped on the bandwagon. The issue is that DIY dental “hacks” like this can lead to all sorts of oral health problems.
Your teeth consist of many different layers. The outer, white layer that you see when you smile is called the enamel. Unlike your fingernails or hair, your dental enamel does not grow back one it is gone. Using a nail file on your teeth shaves away this protective layer, leaving you vulnerable to all sorts of oral health problems, including dental emergencies that could require immediate dental treatment. Here are just a few of the issues that you could develop if you partake in the trend:
If the surface of your teeth is uneven, or your teeth are different lengths, you don’t necessarily need to settle for it. Your dentist can help you achieve the results you’re looking for in a safe manner. Here are a few options:
Tooth Contouring: This is a simple procedure that involves a dentist removing a small amount of your enamel in order to improve the appearance of your teeth.
Cosmetic Bonding: If you have minor chips or a tooth that is slightly undersized, cosmetic bonding could be the answer. In this case, a dentist sculpts a tooth-colored composite resin to the teeth in order to change their shape. It is then hardened with a special light.
Porcelain Veneers: For teeth that slightly misaligned, you could opt for porcelain veneers. They are thin shells of porcelain that cover the front surface of the teeth. They are designed to be the exact size, shape, and color to blend in with the rest of your smile!
Don’t partake in dangerous TikTok dental trends. The enamel you have now is the only enamel you will ever have. By seeing your dentist for your cosmetic needs, you can avoid oral health issues in the future!
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