Many users of the video-sharing social media site TikTok love posting hacks to make some mundane everyday tasks simpler or beauty tips, but while some of the hacks can be clever and helpful, others can be incredibly harmful and dangerous.
According to the Metro, one such dangerous trend that has emerged is videos of users ‘straightening’ their teeth by using a nail file to sand them down to an even length, which is not only a painful procedure but can lead to permanent damage, warn dentists.
Many dental professionals who use the increasingly popular social media channel had quickly responded, strongly urging users to not attempt the DIY cosmetic dentistry.
Sunny Sihra, lead dentist from Simply Teeth Clinic, said: “Filing down your teeth using a nail file is incredibly damaging and could cause permanent damage to the tooth structure as well as the enamel around the edge of the tooth. You cannot regrow tooth enamel, so the damage is irreversible.”
He added that any cosmetic contouring should only ever be performed by a dental professional with the appropriate sterilised equipment.
It may seem a quick fix, but by filing down teeth, people are running the risk of damaging healthy tooth tissue and the enamel, which will potentially lead to other issues such as sensitivity, cavities, and pain.
It will then mean visits to the dentist to repair the DIY work, which might include cosmetic dentistry, or having to have teeth filled, rebuilt, or having crowns fitted. Filing down of teeth could crack teeth, and lead to painful infections, bone loss, and the need for extensive dentistry work.
If you’re looking for a private dentist in Bishops Waltham, book an appointment today.