In this lively episode of Beyond the Smile, Dr. Mark Provencher of Kelowna Dental Solutions and Rob Cupello explore some of the quirkiest and most viral dental hacks trending online. From TikTok fads to age-old remedies, the duo delves into what works, what doesn’t, and what might actually harm your teeth.
The discussion kicks off with a classic TikTok trend: mixing baking soda and lemon juice for instant teeth whitening. Dr. Provencher doesn’t mince words, explaining, “There’s some truth to it, but it’s dangerous. You’re essentially bathing your teeth in acid and scrubbing them with sand.” While it might yield temporary whitening, the damage to enamel could lead to long-term issues like cavities and sensitivity.
Next up is the craze for activated charcoal toothpaste, once hailed as a natural solution for teeth whitening. Dr. Provencher remains skeptical. “I’ve seen no concrete evidence supporting it, and the fact that major corporations haven’t backed it speaks volumes.” Though it might not harm your teeth outright, its effectiveness is questionable at best.
Perhaps the most eyebrow-raising hack involves using unconventional items like sewing thread or fishing line to floss. While it might seem innovative, Dr. Provencher cautions against it for all but the most dexterous individuals. “Improper technique can cause significant trauma,” he warns, adding that professional-grade floss is always the safest bet.
Oil pulling with coconut oil—a practice touted for improving oral health—was another hot topic. Dr. Provencher acknowledges some potential benefits but notes the commitment required: “You’d need to swish for 10 to 20 minutes for it to be effective, which most people won’t do.” Similarly, apple cider vinegar for teeth whitening is dismissed due to its acidic nature, which can erode enamel.
The conversation veers into the outright bizarre with hacks like rubbing banana peels on teeth. Dr. Provencher, while amused, remains unconvinced. “I’ve never heard of this working, and I can’t see how it would,” he admits.
The episode wraps up with a reminder to approach social media advice cautiously. “It’s always better to consult a professional,” Rob concludes, echoing Dr. Provencher’s sentiments. “Dental health isn’t something to gamble with.”
Whether you’re tempted to try the latest hack or curious about DIY solutions, Dr. Provencher’s insights underscore the importance of balancing curiosity with caution. To catch more engaging conversations about oral health, stay tuned for future episodes of Beyond the Smile.
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