Why you shouldn't whiten your teeth at home

The widespread use of platforms such as TikTok and Instagram is having a significant impact on the dental field. 

One prominent trend is the obsessive pursuit of the perfect smile, driven by the influence of influencers and the pressure to maintain an ideal image on social media. This phenomenon has increased the demand for aesthetic dental treatments such as smile designs, whitening and dental brightening, according to Sílvia Medina, a specialist in aesthetics and oral rehabilitation at Institutos Odontológicos (IO).

However, it is crucial not to separate dental aesthetics from its medical basisAll of these procedures require a proper initial diagnosis and follow-up by qualified professionals. For example, dental veneers are not simply a matter of placing thin veneers on the tooth surface; accurate diagnosis and sometimes pre-treatments such as cleanings are essential to ensure their safe application and minimise possible long-term complications.

The proliferation of 'miracle' teeth whitening products on social mediawhich promise results without professional supervision, represent a significant risk. These products can cause damage such as enamel abrasion, gum burns and tooth sensitivity. It is crucial that individuals interested in cosmetic dental procedures always seek the advice of qualified professionals and follow treatment instructions properly.

In Spain, the General Council of Dentists has denounced some brands that offer dental treatments without proper health authorisation, underlining the importance of using certified dental clinics and avoiding oral health risks.

The obsession with achieving completely white teeth, often referred to as "whitorexia", is not only unnatural but may also indicate an ignorance of the natural range of healthy tooth shades, which can include shades such as yellow, brown or grey in healthy mouths.

In summary, while dental aesthetics is a significant component of overall dental rehabilitation, oral health should always be the priority. It is essential that decisions regarding cosmetic dental procedures are made with knowledge and under the guidance of qualified professionals to ensure safe and satisfactory results.