Have you ever woken up with a terrible toothache and thought, “Maybe I can fix this myself.” A quick internet search leads you to DIY dental hacks that seem simple enough. But before you grab that super glue or attempt to file down a rough tooth, it’s essential to understand why DIY dentistry is never a good idea. While at-home dental care, like brushing and flossing, is critical, taking dental treatment into your own hands can cause far more harm than good.
At Drs. Chin & Pharar Dentistry, we understand the challenges of dental pain and the temptation to find quick fixes. Our community-based practice addresses dental emergencies, treats medically complex cases, and provides compassionate care for high-anxiety patients. With years of experience treating cancer patients and those with unique dental needs, our team offers the professional expertise and gentle approach you need for safe, effective dental treatment.
What Are Common DIY Dental Treatments People Attempt?
With the rise of social media, countless “hacks” claim to offer quick fixes for everyday problems, including dental issues. Here are some common DIY dental treatments people attempt instead of seeking proper professional care:
Filling Cavities With Household Items
Some people attempt to fill cavities with wax, over-the-counter repair kits, or even chewing gum. While these options are great for temporary relief while you contact your dentist, they don’t address the root cause of your decay and can lead to more significant problems without treatment.
Pulling Teeth at Home
While baby teeth are commonly lost at home, adult teeth should be extracted by a dentist to prevent severe pain, infection, damage to your gums and jawbone, and excessive bleeding.
Using Superglue to Fix Broken Teeth or Reattach Crowns
Believe it or not, some people turn to superglue to repair a chipped tooth or reattach a broken crown. However, super glue is toxic and can damage your tooth enamel and surrounding tissue.
DIY Braces
Some individuals attempt to straighten their teeth with household items like rubber bands and paperclips. This can lead to serious complications, including gum damage and irreversible tooth movement. A trained dental professional uses advanced imaging and extensive knowledge to shift your teeth in the correct order and at the right time.
Teeth Whitening With Toxic Chemicals
While whitening strips and professional treatments are safe, some people use harmful substances like lemon juice, baking soda, or hydrogen peroxide in excessive amounts that can wear down your enamel and cause sensitivity.
Attempting these DIY dental treatments may seem like a quick and inexpensive solution, but they often lead to severe complications that require professional intervention and should never be done at home.
What Risks Come With DIY Dental Care?
While DIY projects around the house can be fun and rewarding, DIY dental work is a very different story. Unfortunately, a recent study shows that a third of Gen Z reported they would attempt DIY dental treatment. However, it’s important to note there are significant risks you take when treating dental issues on your own, including:
- Infections
- Permanent damage
- Increased pain
- Worsening of your condition.
In addition to the dental issues that can result from at-home treatment, many people don’t realize poor dental health doesn’t just affect your mouth but can impact your entire body. Untreated infections in the mouth can spread bacteria into the bloodstream, increasing your risk of heart disease and stroke. This bacteria can travel to your lungs and cause respiratory illnesses like pneumonia as well. Poor dental health has also been linked to difficulties in managing blood sugar levels, making diabetes challenging to control. Because of this, you should always contact your dentist when a dental issue arises, rather than taking matters into your own hands.
Don’t Risk Your Dental Health, Call Us Today at Drs. Chin & Pharar Dentistry
At Drs. Chin & Pharar Dentistry, we understand the temptation to try DIY solutions when dental pain strikes, but professional care is always the safer choice. Our community-based practice provides comprehensive treatment for dental emergencies that might otherwise tempt you to try dangerous at-home remedies. With our CEREC same-day restoration technology and experience handling complex cases, we can address your dental concerns quickly and effectively without the risks associated with DIY attempts.
Leave your dental health in professional hands rather than experimenting with potentially harmful home remedies. Our team specializes in treating patients with high anxiety, offering sedation options that make proper dental care comfortable and accessible for everyone. Whether you’re experiencing pain, have a broken tooth, or need advice about any dental concern, we’re here to help. Contact our caring team today at (702) 445-7075 or through our contact form.
