I get your point, but honestly, even if dental offices were more relatable, teens would still probably find DIY hacks tempting. Remember the cinnamon challenge? Teens love risky trends... maybe it's not just about understanding orthodontics, but also peer pressure and curiosity?
That's a fair point about teens and risky trends... I remember when my younger cousin tried the cinnamon challenge and ended up coughing for days. But I still think making dental offices less intimidating could help at least some teens feel comfortable enough to ask questions before trying something dangerous. Maybe it's not about completely stopping risky behavior, but reducing it? Do you think having more relatable dental professionals on social media could make a difference?
That's a really good point, actually. My grandson used to dread dentist visits until his orthodontist started sharing short, funny videos on TikTok. Suddenly, he wasn't as anxious about appointments and even started asking questions about stuff he'd seen online. So yeah, relatable dental pros on social media might help teens feel less intimidated and more informed. It won't stop every risky trend, but even if it makes a few kids pause before trying something dangerous, it's worth a shot.
That's interesting about your grandson and the TikTok dentist—definitely a creative way to ease anxiety. But I wonder, does anyone else feel like there's a fine line between dentists being relatable online and teens taking dental advice from random influencers? I mean, it's great if orthodontists can make kids more comfortable, but how do we make sure teens know who to trust?
I recently saw a video where someone was using rubber bands to "close gaps" in their teeth at home. It looked harmless enough at first glance, but then I read comments from actual dentists explaining how dangerous it is—like causing tooth loss or serious gum damage. That freaked me out a bit because my own dentist never mentioned anything like that. Now I'm wondering, should dentists be actively warning patients about these DIY trends during appointments?
Also, how do you guys feel about dentists addressing viral trends directly on their social media? Would it help teens see the risks more clearly, or would it just give these dangerous hacks even more attention? I'm genuinely curious because, honestly, the last thing I want is my kid losing teeth over some viral nonsense...
I totally get your concern about teens trusting random influencers—I mean, sometimes I catch myself believing stuff online before realizing it's nonsense. Honestly, dentists probably should mention these DIY trends more often during appointments. When I went to my first braces consultation recently, my orthodontist actually took time to warn me about some of the crazy stuff he's seen patients try at home... like filing their teeth with nail files (yikes).
About dentists addressing viral trends directly on social media, it could go either way. On one hand, teens might actually listen if a dentist they follow debunks harmful hacks in a relatable way. But on the other hand, sometimes calling attention to dangerous ideas just makes them more popular. It's tricky.
Either way, you're right to be cautious—losing teeth over some TikTok trend sounds terrifying. Maybe casually bringing it up at your kid's next dental appointment could help ease your mind? At least you'd know your dentist is aware of what's out there and can set things straight.
