Dental Experts Warn Against Viral Teeth Whitening Trends

A growing trend on Tiktok in recent weeks has revealed a growing number of “Veneer Techs” surging in popularity. These are usually individuals with no medical experience or qualification of any kind who are practicing illegal, unlicensed dentistry.

What can go wrong? Well, lots – “We’ve seen videos on TikTok and Instagram of people recounting their horror stories, with some people saying their teeth have fallen out as a result or that their new veneers were just too big for their mouth. A lot of times these veneers may be placed on top of quite unhealthy teeth, which is going to lead to serious problems down the road. You can get the actual veneers cheaper by visiting one of these backroom practices, but more than likely you’re going to end up spending thousands with your dentist to fix the problems that arise.” notes a spokesperson for Bandon Dental

“It’s a minefield, only dentists should be performing work such as placing veneers. There are so many health risks associated with improper work, so to think you can cut some corners and get this type of procedure done on the cheap is just irresponsible.”

Teeth staining is a common concern, with numerous culprits contributing to discolouration.

"Many everyday items can stain your teeth. From the tannins in tea and coffee to the dark pigments in red wine and colas, these beverages can wreak havoc on your smile. Even healthy foods like berries and beetroot can leave stains."

Vaping, often seen as a safer alternative to smoking, also poses risks. "While vaping doesn't stain teeth as much as smoking, the sticky aerosol and artificial flavourings can lead to discoloration," adds the spokesperson.

Teeth whitening is becoming increasingly popular, especially among younger demographics. According to a survey, 40% of 18-24-year-olds are likely to whiten their teeth, while 22% of Britons overall would consider professional whitening. "This trend reflects a growing desire for a confident smile, but you need to ensure you’re doing this type of work safely!”

Maintaining a bright smile naturally involves a combination of diet and oral hygiene practices. "A simple rule is if it would stain a white T-shirt, it will stain your teeth. Opt for a diet that supports your ideal smile—white foods and beverages where possible. If you can't part with your favorite vices, switch to iced coffee with milk, use a straw, and rinse your mouth regularly with water to minimize staining," the spokesperson advises.

In addition, natural whitening methods such as baking soda can be beneficial. "Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help remove surface stains," notes the spokesperson. "However, it should be used sparingly to avoid damaging your enamel."

Understanding the natural color of your teeth is key to setting realistic whitening goals. "Teeth aren't naturally pure white," says the spokesperson. "They range in shades of white and yellow, and aiming for a natural-looking white is healthier and more achievable than striving for an unnaturally bright shade."

Teeth whitening strips are a popular over-the-counter solution, but their effectiveness can vary. "Whitening strips can be effective for mild stains," the spokesperson explains. "However, they need to be used correctly and consistently. For more significant staining, professional treatments may be necessary to achieve the desired results."