Videos promoting home-made teeth whitening recipes and promises of a “perfect smile” are increasingly common on social media. However, specialists are concerned about how widespread these practices have become, warning about the dangers of self-medicating and carrying out dental treatments without professional guidance.
Among the most shared posts are mixtures using bicarbonate of soda, activated charcoal and hydrogen peroxide for dental whitening, as well as purchasing aligners online without any dental supervision.
According to Guilherme Andrade Lima, course leader for Dentistry at Faculdade Anhanguera, using products and techniques promoted online in the wrong way can lead to sensitivity, wear to the tooth enamel, gum injuries and even more serious damage to the structure of the teeth. “A lot of social media content oversimplifies procedures that require a professional assessment. What seems harmless can cause irreversible consequences for oral health,” he warns.
Myths and truths about home dental treatments
Below are the main myths and truths about home dental treatments that have become popular on social media, and how they can affect oral health:
1. Bicarbonate of soda whitens teeth
Partly true. It may lift surface stains, but frequent use can wear away dental enamel.
2. Hydrogen peroxide can replace professional teeth whitening
Myth. Misuse of hydrogen peroxide can cause irritation and injuries inside the mouth.
3. Aligners bought online work the same way as professional treatment
Myth. Without a dental assessment, using them can lead to bite problems and incorrect movement of the teeth.
4. Viral recipes can harm oral health
True. Some practices can worsen existing issues and delay the correct diagnosis.
Guilherme Andrade Lima emphasises that dental procedures should always be carried out under professional supervision. “The search for quick results on social media cannot put health at risk,” he concludes.
By Priscila Dezidério
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