Kaiser Health News (10/18, Giles) discussed DIY dentistry trends on social media, particularly TikTok, saying that in addition to DIY gem kits, “there are DIY tooth replacement kits and bedazzled grills available online for under $25, and recipes for homemade toothpaste and whitening treatments.” According to the article, “The TikTok hashtag #DIYdentist has 2.6 million views.” Despite claims that these items and approaches can save money and improve smiles, DIY dentistry poses oral health risks and “may end up costing patients far more in the long run,” dental professionals say.
Meanwhile, Good Morning America (10/19, Yate reports on “a DIY vampire fang Halloween hack gone wrong” that “made its way to TikTok.” In a video that “has received more than 10 million views and more than 6,000 comments from other TikTokkers,” a TikTok personality shared her unsuccessful attempts “to remove fake fangs,” which she said she had applied using nail glue.