DIY Dentistry

There are a lot of “Do It Yourself” videos out there. Some of these videos are great, such as DIY home improvement projects that will take your kitchen from lame to awesome with just a few crafty tricks. However, DIY dentistry is now on the rise with YouTubers, and let us tell you, this is a prescription that will leave you with anything but a smile on your face.

The reasons people try to perform complex procedures at home varies.

However, the two most popular reasons are fear of the dentist and the cost. Let’s address the first problem; fear. There are so many other ways to deal with your fear than avoiding the dentist and doing it yourself. For example, sedation dentistry allows you to take a little catnap while the dentist makes your pearly whites shine. In regards to cost, you will end up spending a much larger amount if you try to do it yourself, and fail, than you originally would have if you just went to the dentist in the first place.

The Dangers of DIY Dentistry

Dr. Christina Carter, an orthodontist, pediatric dentist and president elect of the Northeastern Society of Orthodontists addresses a video about DIY dentistry, “The teeth are connected to the gums and the blood supply and there is a risk of infection, of tearing the gums which might not heal properly, and a risk of damaging the attachment between the tooth and gums so the tooth no longer gets the support it needs. There are so many things that can really go wrong.” Watch the video that horrified the President of the Northeastern Society of Orthodontists here.

DIY Teeth Whitening

When it comes to teeth whitening options, there are some at-home remedies that aren’t terrible, but be vary wary when putting unfamiliar substances on your teeth. The adverse affects could mean an unforeseeable allergic reaction, or permanent damage to the gum-line. If at-home tooth whitening is your kind of DIY dentistry, then we recommend discussing take-home whitening trays provided by our dental professionals.

The Secret to Fewer Dental Appointments

What’s the secret to fewer dental appointments? Well, good oral hygiene!

• Brush your teeth twice a day for at least 2 minutes
• Floss twice a day
• Use a fluoride mouth rinse
• Brush your teeth shortly after meals
• Limit your intake of sugar
• Visit the dentist every 6 months for a regular cleaning

Everything other than your everyday oral hygiene and at home whitening you should leave to the professionals! Dr. Newman has been featured as one of Nashville’s ‘Top Doctors’ and would love to help you get your desired smile in a safe way! Contact us today to schedule your appointment.