Dentistry Gone Viral: Debunking the Top Trends on Social Media

By Ayesha Khan, MD, MBA

Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have become breeding grounds for oral health trends. These often originate from influencers or individuals promoting "natural remedies," "quick fixes," or aesthetically pleasing dental treatments. The allure of these trends lies in their visual appeal, simplicity, and promises of instant results. However, much of the content circulating on these platforms is anecdotal and lacks scientific rigor. Numerous trends fail to improve oral health and can actively cause harm.

Dental professionals must critically assess these trends, understand their potential risks, and guide patients through evidence-based practices to maintain optimal oral health.

Analyzing Popular Oral Health Trends

1. DIY Teeth Whitening with Charcoal or Peroxide

One popular trend dominating social media involves DIY teeth whitening practices using activated charcoal or hydrogen peroxide. Supporters of activated charcoal often highlight its "natural" origins, noting its historical use by ancient Romans for oral hygiene and its inclusion in 19th-century toothpaste. Activated charcoal is valued for its porous surface, which can trap and absorb toxins. While this may seem appealing, especially to younger audiences, the research underscores the significant risks associated with these methods.

The American Dental Association (ADA) has raised concerns regarding using activated charcoal in oral care. Its abrasive nature can erode tooth enamel, making teeth more vulnerable to decay and gum recession. Additionally, charcoal particles can become lodged in dental crevices or around restorations, such as veneers or crowns, leading to unsightly discoloration. Another common issue is the absence of fluoride in charcoal-based toothpaste, which diminishes their ability to prevent cavities. Activated charcoal can absorb fluoride, effectively negating its essential role in strengthening enamel. Furthermore, the federal classification of charcoal as a carcinogen and the inclusion of carcinogenic crystalline silica in some formulations highlights further safety concerns.

Hydrogen peroxide, often used in DIY methods alongside charcoal, also poses risks when misused. High concentrations can irritate soft tissues and damage enamel, particularly when applied without professional supervision. Dental professionals should strongly recommend in-office treatments that use carefully calibrated solutions to minimize risks and protect oral health for safe and effective teeth whitening.

2. Oil Pulling for Oral Detoxification

Oil pulling, a traditional practice that involves swishing oils like coconut or sesame oil in the mouth, has gained popularity through TikTok videos claiming it "detoxes" the oral cavity and improves overall oral health. Proponents suggest oil pulling prevents cavities, whitens teeth, and reduces bad breath.

While historical significance may lend credibility to oil pulling, systematic reviews have demonstrated limited efficacy. One study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research indicates that oil pulling can modestly reduce oral bacteria, particularly Streptococcus mutans, which is linked to cavities, but concluded oil pulling was far less effective than fluoride-based interventions or regular brushing and flossing. Dental professionals must emphasize that although oil pulling may be harmless, it should never replace scientifically proven dental care.

3. Influencer-Endorsed Orthodontic Devices

Orthodontic treatments typically require precise, customized planning by trained professionals to ensure long-term oral health. However, some influencers have endorsed mail-order clear aligner companies or DIY kits for "straightening teeth at home," bypassing professional consultations altogether.

This trend has significant risks. Poorly designed aligners or inappropriate use of force can lead to root resorption, periodontal damage, and misaligned bites. American Dental Association has publicly warned against such practices, urging patients to seek treatment under licensed professionals who can assess individual oral conditions thoroughly.

4. Lemon Water for Whiter Teeth

Social media often glamorizes the idea of drinking lemon-infused water as a "natural" whitening solution. While lemon water has mild detoxifying properties for general health, its high acidity can be extremely harmful to dental enamel.

Consistent exposure to acidic substances weakens tooth enamel, increasing vulnerability to erosion, hypersensitivity, and decay. Dental practitioners should educate patients on the detrimental effects of this trend, emphasizing that any perceived whitening effects occur because the enamel has thinned, revealing the underlying dentin.

5. Chewing Sugar-Free Gum as a Substitute for Brushing

While sugar-free gum containing xylitol is sometimes marketed as a "cavity fighter," social media exaggerates its benefits by promoting it as a substitute for brushing or flossing. Patients who adopt this practice may neglect crucial oral hygiene habits.

Sugar-free gum can play a supplementary role by stimulating salivary flow, which helps buffer acids and maintain a neutral oral pH. However, it cannot remove plaque biofilm or food particles lodged between teeth. Dental providers must explain to patients that brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and regular flossing are irreplaceable cornerstones of oral hygiene.

Debunking Myths with Evidence-Based Guidance

Countering misinformation on social media requires a solid foundation of evidence-based guidelines from recognized organizations, such as the ADA or the World Dental Federation (FDI). Here’s how dental professionals can address myths effectively:

1. Explain Underlying Risks: When addressing trending topics with patients, clarify the biological or chemical mechanisms that make the practice harmful. For instance, describe how acids in lemon water demineralize enamel or how DIY orthodontics can alter periodontal health.
2. Discuss Benefits of Professional Care: Reiterate the advantages of seeking treatment or products approved by dental professionals. For example, explain the controlled nature of in-office whitening solutions compared to the unpredictability of DIY methods.
3. Promote Preventive Measures: Patients need frequent reminders about the importance of preventive care, including fluoride treatments, dental sealants, and routine cleanings. These are scientifically proven to maintain long-term oral health.

The Role of Patient Education

Dental professionals are essential in fostering health literacy and empowering patients to evaluate information critically. Clear communication and patient education are key to dispelling myths. Some effective strategies include:

• Leverage Analogies: Use relatable analogies to explain complex dental topics. For example, compare enamel damage to eroded paint on a car’s surface to help patients understand why they should avoid abrasives.
• Encourage Two-Way Conversations: Actively listen to patients’ concerns, many of which may stem from social media trends. Validating their questions and offering science-backed responses allows for deeper patient trust and engagement.
• Provide Reliable Resources: Direct patients to credible websites like the ADA or Mayo Clinic for further reading. The visibility of accurate information can help patients differentiate between credible advice and unfounded social media claims.
• Utilize Digital Platforms: Dentists can take a proactive approach by creating educational content for social media platforms. Sharing videos or infographics that debunk myths with clear, concise explanations can resonate with the younger demographic most often influenced by trends.

Conclusion

Social media has amplified awareness of oral health but also spread misinformation through trends like DIY whitening and oil pulling, which pose risks to long-term dental health. Dental professionals must address these myths with evidence-based guidance, emphasizing patient education to counteract misinformation and promote trusted scientifically sound oral care practices.

References:

1. Palandi, S. D. S., Kury, M., Picolo, M. Z. D., Coelho, C. S. S., & Cavalli, V. (2020). Effects of activated charcoal powder combined with toothpaste on enamel color change and surface properties. Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry, 32(8), 783-790.
2. Febriani, M., Jaya, F., Tyas, H. A., & Sasmita, I. S. (2019). Application of active charcoal as an ingredient of a natural bleaching teeth. Journal of International Dental and Medical Research, 12(4), 1310-1321.
3. Ruiz, M. A., de Souza Miola, L., Hori, G. M. R., & Catelan, A. (2021). Whitening effect of brushing with activated charcoal-based products on enamel: Integrative review. Research, Society and Development, 10(15), e259101522809-e259101522809.
4. Lussi, A., Megert, B., & Shellis, R. P. (2023). The erosive effect of various drinks, foods, stimulants, medications, and mouthwashes on human tooth enamel. SWISS DENTAL JOURNAL SSO–Science and Clinical Topics, 133(7/8), 440-455.
5. Alshaer, N., Bakhaider, R., Elias, A. Y., Yamany, I., Alshouibi, E., & Elias, W. (2022). Dental misconceptions in social media accounts: YouTube and Instagram applications among fluoride toxicity, bleaching, and waterjet. Annals of Dental Specialty, 10(2-2022), 19-24.

Author: Ayesha Khan, MD, MBA, is a registered physician, former research fellow, and enthusiastic blogger. With a wide range of articles published in renowned newspapers and scientific journals, she covers topics such as nutrition, wellness, supplements, medical research, and alternative medicine. Currently serving as the Vice President of Social Communications and Strategy at Renaissance, Ayesha brings her expertise and strategic mindset to drive impactful initiatives. Follow her blog for insightful content on healthcare advancements and empower yourself with knowledge.