Videos with homemade recipes to whiten teeth and promises of a “perfect smile” have been gaining ground on social media. However, the popularization of these practices worries experts, who warn of the risks of self-medication and dental treatments carried out without professional guidance.

Among the most popular content are recipes with sodium bicarbonate, activated charcoal and hydrogen peroxide for whitening dentalin addition to purchasing aligners without dental supervision.

According to the coordinator of the Dentistry course at Faculdade Anhanguera, Guilherme Andrade Lima, the inappropriate use of products and techniques published on the internet can cause sensitivitywear of tooth enamel, gum injuries and even more serious problems in the structure of the teeth. “Many content on social media simplifies procedures that require professional evaluation. What seems harmless can have irreversible consequences for oral health”, he warns.

Myths and truths about home dental treatments

Next, see the main myths and truths about treatments homemade dental treatments that have become popular on social media and understand how they can affect oral health:

1. Bicarbonate whitens teeth

Partially true. The product can remove superficial stains, but frequent use wears down tooth enamel.

2. Hydrogen peroxide can replace teeth whitening

Mito. Inappropriate use of hydrogen peroxide can cause irritation and injuries to the mouth.

3. Aligners purchased online work in the same way as professional treatment

Mito. Without dental evaluation, use can cause bite problems and incorrect movement of teeth. teeth.

4. Viral recipes can harm oral health

True. Some practices can aggravate existing problems and delay correct diagnosis.

Guilherme Andrade Lima reinforces that procedures dental must always be carried out with professional supervision. “The search for quick results on social media cannot put your health at risk”, he concludes.

By Priscila Dezidério