The Dangers of TikTok’s DIY Tooth Filing Trend
Adolescents and young adults are using nail files and power grinders to reshape their teeth at home, a trend appearing in TikTok videos. Dr. Christophe Lequart of the Union Française pour la Santé Bucco-Dentaire (UFSBD) warns that this practice causes irreversible enamel loss and can disrupt jaw alignment and chewing functions.
Why is DIY tooth filing dangerous?
Users attempt to correct teeth they perceive as too long, too pointy, or irregular to achieve a “perfect smile” without visiting a dentist. Dr. Christophe Lequart, a dental surgeon and spokesperson for the UFSBD, describes the practice as “dramatic” for dental health.
He states that using nail files or hardware tools on teeth is a practice that must be “absolutely banned.” These abrasive tools destroy the enamel, which does not regenerate. Once the enamel is gone, teeth may develop acute sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
How does home filing affect jaw alignment?
Modifying the shape or height of teeth can disrupt the global balance of the mouth. According to Dr. Lequart, every tooth’s position is critical for the movements used during mastication.
If an individual grinds down their incisors, they risk losing the necessary contact between the upper and lower teeth. Because incisors are used to cut food, this loss of contact may make it impossible for the person to cut their food properly.
What are safe alternatives for a broken tooth?
Some individuals use files to smooth a sharp edge caused by a fracture or a cavity to avoid injuring the tongue or cheek. Dr. Lequart advises against this and recommends safer temporary solutions until a professional appointment can be scheduled.
Patients can protect the irritated area using orthodontic wax. If that is unavailable, Dr. Lequart suggests using a piece of the red wax from a Babybel cheese, which serves as a food-grade wax to prevent injuries.
What may happen next?
As these videos circulate, more young people could be tempted to attempt these procedures to avoid the cost of professional care. This may lead to an increase in patients presenting with irreversible enamel erosion and jaw imbalances.
Medical professionals are likely to increase warnings against “DIY dentistry” as a possible next step to counter the influence of short-term social media trends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can tooth enamel grow back after being filed?
No. According to Dr. Christophe Lequart, once enamel is eliminated, it will not grow back.
What are the functional risks of filing your own incisors?
You may lose the contact between your upper and lower teeth, which could prevent you from being able to cut your food.
What can I use to cover a sharp tooth edge before seeing a dentist?
Dr. Lequart recommends using orthodontic wax or the red wax from a Babybel cheese to protect the tongue and cheek.
Have you ever felt pressured by social media trends to try a DIY health or beauty hack?