Since 2016, the popular social media app TikTok has been taking the internet by storm with its inventive dances, recipes, and life hacks. Many people turn to TikTok for recommendations on anything from restaurants to try in their city to ways to improve their smiles. Unfortunately, the latter doesn’t always give you the results you’re looking for. In fact, some of these dental recommendations can do more harm than good. Read on to learn about the “Veneers Check” TikTok trend and how it can harm your oral health.
What Is the “Veneers Check” TikTok Trend?
In late 2020, the “Veneers Check” TikTok trend began to go viral on the app. When someone participates in it, they show off what their natural teeth look like after they’ve been prepared to receive a dental procedure. To some, the appearance of their teeth can be jarring. It may even cause potential patients to avoid the procedure altogether. Additionally, the prepared teeth in these videos aren’t an accurate representation of how the procedure works.
The Difference Between Crowns and Veneers
Though the name of this dangerous TikTok trend implies that the people in the videos are preparing to have veneers attached to their teeth, this isn’t actually the case. The way that their teeth look is in better alignment with dental crown preparation.
Though both crowns and veneers are used to improve the look of one’s teeth, there are some important differences. The dental crown procedure is done to restore a tooth that has been severely damaged or otherwise compromised. It requires the reshaping of the tooth to ensure that the cap, or crown, can fit over it without disrupting one’s bite.
On the other hand, veneers are a cosmetic treatment that uses thin, porcelain shells to cover the entire front surface of one’s tooth. Both procedures require permanent changes to the tooth and can correct discoloration, chips, cracks, misshapen teeth, alignment issues, and gaps. Even so, veneers require only a small amount of enamel removal unlike the “Veneers Check” videos would imply.
Why It’s Dangerous
The videos featured in the “Veneers Check” are showing preparation for a dental crown procedure, not porcelain veneers. The spread of misinformation can make it difficult for patients to know what certain procedures entail. This can keep them from seeking the treatment they need or may even lead to them asking their dentist for the wrong procedure.
When it comes to your smile, TikTok isn’t the best place to get advice. Always be sure to speak to an oral health professional. They will be able to help you determine what kind of treatment you need to have your pearly whites looking their best!
About the Practice
Have you ever fallen victim to one of TikTok’s dangerous dental trends? If so, the kind team of McKinney dental health professionals at Lake Forest Dental is here to help. Led by Dr. Steve Cha, they take pride in helping patients correct a range of oral health issues and maintain healthy, happy smiles. Call Lake Forest Dental’s office at (972) 529-1800 or visit their website for more information on veneers or to schedule an appointment.