After the popularity of baking soda and charcoal, TikTok has gone into a frenzy over the latest teeth-whitening trend - purple toothpaste. Devoted fans claim that the bold purple color has the power to counteract yellow stains on teeth. The rationale here is that purple opposes yellow on the color wheel, potentially offsetting yellow discoloration and giving the illusion of whiter teeth. TikTok is flooded with videos showcasing individuals brushing with purple paste, often featuring impressive before-and-after photos. Even established brands like Crest have joined the purple toothpaste trend. However, it's important to note that the effectiveness of purple "toothpaste" primarily lies in color science, and according to reports, it doesn't actually alter the teeth or remove stains in a conventional way.

Look, we get it; the cost of dental procedures and access to dental care is a huge issue for many, but it’s important to be cautious of DIY dental hacks that offer quick fixes or dramatic results, as they may do more harm than good. However, a TikTok trend with over 635M views suggests forgoing dental visits and attempting at-home treatments using everyday household items. One such practice gaining attention is oil pulling, an ancient Indian tradition involving swishing sesame or coconut oil in the mouth for 15 minutes daily and then spitting it out. It's believed to offer various health benefits, including teeth and gum strengthening, reducing plaque buildup, and combating bad breath. However, dental experts emphasize that swishing any liquid in the mouth alone won't suffice for proper oral care; brushing and flossing remain essential components of a healthy dental routine.

— Camryn, 19, AZ (Cassandra Collective)

With an impressive following of more than 147K users, @veneercheck is the TikTok platform owned by Dr. Sara Hahn, a Harvard-trained dentist specializing in cosmetic dentistry. Her TikTok journey began in March 2022, driven by her concern over a trend in celebrity smiles, and through a blend of academic expertise and influencer-style delivery, Hahn uses her platform to provide insightful analysis and speculative commentary on the dental transformations of said celebrities. While some viewers express reservations about the intrusive nature of Hahn's content, and others react defensively to suggestions that their beloved stars have undergone dental procedures, many express gratitude for her role in shedding light on the potential pitfalls of aesthetic dentistry and the risks it poses to perfectly healthy teeth.