Dentists issues fresh warning over latest TikTok dental craze
Dentists have issued a fresh warning after yet another dental craze has taken off on social platform, TikTok.
The most recent viral trend is storing toothpaste in clear bottles to make shelves and bathroom storage units look more appealing. While this is a lot less dangerous than other crazes that have prompted responses from dental professionals, there are risks attached. Previous trends have included reshaping the teeth using nail files, DIY bleaching for whiter smiles and using tiny elastic bands to close gaps between the teeth.
The problem with the latest TikTok dental trend is that dental products, including toothpaste, are not designed to be exposed to UV rays. Dr Suhail Mohiuddin took to TikTok to warn followers about the newest craze, advising that toothpaste is not UV-stable, which means that exposing it to light can make the ingredients “ineffective.”
Dr Mohiuddin suggested that manufacturers would have already released clear tubes and packaging if it worked and was viable and urged TikTok users to follow advice from trained, qualified dental professionals.
Fellow dentist, Dr Amber Bonnaig, also advised users against jumping on the clear tube bandwagon, insisting that the tubes of toothpaste we see on the shelves have been “refined for many, many years” to make sure that the “materials inside are at the right proportions.”
The clear bottle craze is the latest in a long string of dental trends that have swept TikTok like wildfire. While there are some positive posts and opportunities for dentists to share tips and advice on social platforms, there is a danger linked to users accessing information on social channels and apps.
Much of the information is not backed by research, and some trends, including DIY whitening and orthodontic treatment, can be extremely dangerous. Dental experts have encouraged TikTok users to follow trained professionals for accurate, safe, up to date information and guidance.
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