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Dental Fads: Use Caution!

1. Charcoal

Charcoal is the latest natural product touted an ingredient in cosmetic products, including toothpaste. Although activated charcoal is safe, using activated charcoal on teeth may wear away the enamel and make the teeth look more yellow, rather than whitening them. Non-activated charcoal should be avoided at all costs, as it is poisonous.

3. Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is an ancient practice of swishing around sesame, sunflower or coconut oil in your mouth for 15-20 minutes to whiten teeth and freshen breath. While this method was used because there were very few other options available, oil pulling is no longer relevant, and should never replace regular brushing and flossing. Furthermore, there is no scientific evidence to backup the effectiveness of oil pulling.

4. Teeth make-up:

This trend involves putting make-up on teeth for a colorful smile. Unfortunately the make-up may not be safe for ingestion. Do not use unless it's been approved by the FDA!

5. Whatever this is:

Just no.

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