Episode #42: Should You Trust TikTok Dental Advice?

With the rise of social media, there has also been a rise in so-called clinical advice and home health hacks, many of which are harmful. Today, Dr. B addresses the issue of tooth shaving, and why it's a dangerous trend. We hear why the serrations (mamelons) at the edge of your teeth are actually a good thing, and what you can do instead of tooth shaving if you are unhappy with your smile. We dive into the dangers of tooth shaving and home remedies for dental bleaching, and why only horses should have their teeth shaved! Dr. B also gives some great tips on how to tell if the influencer you are listening to is giving good medical advice (hint: there won’t be any shocks!). As this is the last episode of Ask the Dentist for 2021, Dr. B also talks us through some of the exciting things coming our way in 2022. We end this episode (and the year) with Dr. B’s gratitude to all his listeners, and his well-wishes for a family-filled festive season: until next year!Key Points From This Episode:Welcome to the last podcast for 2021, and why Dr. B is so grateful for his listeners [0:00:15]Tooth shaving on TikTok: be wary of the clinical advice you get on social media [0:01:40]What tooth mamelons are and why they’re a good thing [0:03:21]Why an enameloplasty is better for you than shaving your teeth [0:04:07]Why horses can (and should) have their teeth shaved, but humans should not [0:04:49]The other topic to avoid on social media: tooth whitening [0:06:00]How to tell who to trust on social media [0:06:47]Why Dr. B is thankful to have a voice through this podcast [0:07:57]What’s coming in 2022: Dr. B’s business adventure, the ruling on the fluoridation of municipal water case, new techniques, and advice for preventative dental care [0:08:24]A wrap-up of today’s episode, and Dr. B’s wishes for all his listeners over the festive season [0:10:46]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:The Fluoride Action NetworkAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!! Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.com Subscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter