Dental fads are never here to stay which is a good thing. However, some people are determined to try every new gadget or product out there only to be disappointed. Moreover All About Smiles explains that some dental fads have actually caused harm to teeth and gums.
What are Dental Fads?
According to Webster’s dictionary a fad is, “An intense and widely shared enthusiasm for something, especially one that is short-lived and without basis in the object’s qualities; a craze.”
Like all fads, dental fads come and go but that doesn’t mean they won’t leave a lasting impression.
Sadly some have had permanent sensitivity issues from over the counter tooth bleaching kits, but that’s not all. In addition Dr. Francis Golly has seen DIY dentistry gone wrong with online bonding and crown kits.
Now that everything seems to be available online dental fads are getting more intense with new technology popping up everywhere. With that being said, that new technology shouldn’t be attempted at home.
Dr. Francis Golly explains that dental fads that you should avoid include, but are not limited to,
- Oil Pulling
- DIY Dental Bonding
- Hydrogen Peroxide for Bleaching
- DIY Dental Crowns
- Charcoal Toothpaste
- DIY Professional Teeth Whitening
Oil Pulling
Although proponents of oil pulling claim that it has been practiced for 3000 years it doesn’t mean it works for bad breath and yellow teeth.
Moreover this practice could have been the only choice that the ancient civilizations had. Furthermore there is no scientific basis that coconut oil works by pulling through your teeth.
Charcoal Tooth Products
Charcoal toothpastes and toothbrushes seem to be popping up everywhere. Even charcoal dental floss is making an appearance on the shelves.
Charcoal is abrasive and can damage the enamel on your teeth. The enamel is only a millimeter thick. This means any additional abrasive action will cause erosion.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is the main ingredient in many strips, pastes, gels and rinses. With that being said rinsing with it can cause gum sensitivity and even damage. Furthermore, never rinse with unadulterated chemicals and make sure that whatever you use is safe.
Save the over the counter peroxide for medicinal purposes and rinse your teeth with an antibacterial mouth rinse instead.
Dental Bonding
It goes without saying that anything that requires a rubber dam should be left to your dentist. Messing around with prescription bonding kits will get you and your teeth in trouble.
If you have a chipped tooth, do the right thing and schedule an appointment with All About Smiles. Your teeth and gums will be glad you did.
No More Dental Fads
Skip the dental fads and stick with professional dentistry in McMinnville. It really will make a difference. Send a direct message and schedule an appointment today.
