World Oral Health Day – 3 TikTok trends debunked

MORE and more people are turning to platforms like TikTok to share tips and tricks on how to achieve that perfect smile.

Oil pulling and gentian violet concoctions are among the trends online – but how do consumers know what to trust?

In light of World Oral Health Day being observed annually today, March 20, we spoke to an expert to put three TikTok trends to the test – the results just might shock you.

Dr Rajeshree Moodley, a dental therapist and senior lecturer at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, debunked several oral hygiene trends, advising consumers to stick with a simple toothbrush.

1. Oil pulling – can’t replace your toothbrush

While there has been some research on the benefits of oil pulling, Moodley cautioned consumers from relying on this method alone.

“Oil pulling is a traditional Ayurvedic treatment. There is some research done in Asia, and the conclusion is that oil pulling can be used, but it must be used as an adjunct to brushing and flossing. Nothing beats brushing because it mechanically removes plaque and debris from teeth – oil pulling won’t,” said Moodley.

While oils can contain anti-bacterial properties, Moodley said toothpaste is a better option.

“Toothpaste contains a surfactant which creates foam so you can clean your teeth,” said Moodley.

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She added that oil pulling could present some dangers.

“There is a danger if people swallow or inhale the oil, and some articles site lipid pneumonia, a rare form of lung disease due to inhaling products that contain lipids,” she said.

There is also little proof that oil pulling prevents cavities.

“If you want to control plaque, the best way to do this is mechanically with a brush – even if using a brush without toothpaste. If you have cavities or are prone to cavities, you have to see a healthcare practitioner – oil pulling is not going to fix rotten teeth,” said Moodley.

2. Gentian violet – avoid at all costs

Some social media users have made use of gentian violet to whiten teeth or remove yellow stains from teeth – however, this trend was quickly debunked by Moodley, who highlighted several health risks.

“This is a huge scam – it’s quite scary that people put this out there as gentian violet is made for use on skin. Even as a skin medication, gentian violet is not being prescribed as often as it previously was because we now have better products. Gentian violet should not be used internally. TikTokers are advocating that you can mix gentian violet with toothpaste – this is not a good idea. If you have a scratch on your gum, this purple dye could get inside and stain the gum like a tattoo. Newly formed enamel on teeth that have just erupted will stain permanently with gentian violet,” said Moodley.

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3. Peroxide – why risk it?

Another practice we questioned was using peroxide to whiten teeth. Moodley encouraged consumers to appreciate their natural tooth colour or leave the bleaching to the experts.

“Even when teeth bleaching is done in a dental office, it can cause sensitivity – can you imagine what will happen to teeth in an uncontrolled environment? If you have cavities and gum disease, you are going to have problems – you do not want peroxide to irritate your gums or to risk swallowing it or to create tooth sensitivity,” said Moodley.

She added that peroxide could make teeth more prone to being stained by certain foods or drinks.

What to do instead

Rather than trying to bleach one’s teeth, Moodley suggested consumers shift their focus to teeth health.

“The public needs to understand that we all have different-coloured teeth just like we have different-coloured skin. Imagine we all had pure white teeth – it would look odd. Certain complexions are complemented by certain tooth colours. We should think about cleaning our teeth and keeping our gums healthy and then embrace our natural tooth colour,” she said.

The best way to take care of your teeth is with simple products.

“The best thing to use is a fluoridated mouth rinse, regular toothpaste, a toothbrush and dental floss. Make sure you brush each tooth – all surfaces. That’s why we say to brush for two minutes, and regular dental visits are a must,” concluded Moodley.

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