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What is DIY dental scaling?
This at-home tooth-cleaning technique is trending on social media, but here’s why experts should warn against it
DIY dental scaling is the latest term trending on social media, with users taking to TikTok to discuss how to accomplish the technique at home for a cleaner smile. However, according to dentists, the ‘do-it-yourself’ approach could cause irreversible damage to the teeth of those that try it.
“Dental scaling is a tooth cleaning procedure that involves scraping plaque off the teeth and gums,” explains celebrity dentist Dr Richard Marques. “The process uses a metal tool called a scaler, as well as a water spray tool that works to wash away plaque that has been successfully removed.”
When overseen by a professional dentist, the procedure can help keep up a good standard of oral health, by ensuring the preservation of your teeth and healthy gums. “The technique is used when there has been a build of plaque (bacteria that slowly breaks down the enamel on your teeth),” explains Dr Marques. “This build-up can otherwise cause tooth decay, cavities, and bad breath, which may lead to gum disease.”
However, the specific ‘do-it-yourself’ approach that is being celebrated on TikTok is rightly worrying to dentists and shouldn’t be recommended.
“Dental scaling should always be carried out by a professional dentist, in a sterilised environment, with clean tools,” adds Dr Marques. “We should not be encouraging individuals to carry out this procedure at home (an unprofessional, potentially unhygienic environment with household objects or online finds).”
Individuals attempting dental scaling on themselves are risking irreversible damage to their teeth, with some of them not even needing the procedure in the first place.
“Following this TikTok trend can result in personal harm with potential damage to the teeth and gums. It may lead to cracks in the teeth, infection in the gums and teeth sensitivity,” concludes Dr Marques.
“Also, dental scaling is not a procedure for everyone; it is only carried out after a planned consultation which assesses the level of plaque residing in the teeth and gums.”
For that reason, anyone considering dental scaling should always consult a dentist beforehand to ensure safety, and any experts asked about the procedure should encourage the same.