Dear DrBicuspid Member,
Are your patients turning to TikTok for do-it-yourself (DIY) dental trends? Our top story of the week explored some of the bizarre and dangerous dental hacks that have gone viral on the social media platform.
In one video, a woman used 3% hydrogen peroxide to bleach her own teeth. In another, a woman and her boyfriend flew to Turkey to get their teeth shaved down for veneers.
These hacks are likely on the rise because people have been staring at themselves online so much during the pandemic, noted Dr. Katina Spadoni, the dental director for Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and a private practice dentist in Illinois.
New in COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced many new phrases into our vernacular, including "mask mouth." But the term is a slight misconception, according to periodontist Dr. Jeffrey Ganeles. In his column, Ganeles explained that dry mouth is the real culprit behind many pandemic-related issues. He also shared 10 tips for pandemic dental health that you can pass on to your patients.
If you're hearing questions about "mask mouth," you may also be asked about the COVID-19 vaccines. In good news for pregnant women, it appears that the vaccines are safe -- and even recommended, according to maternal-fetal specialist Dr. Geeta Swamy. Swamy spoke at a March 17 ADA webinar on COVID-19 vaccines for pregnant patients.
Also new in COVID-19 news, patients who experience swelling of the tongue and mouth may be infected with the novel coronavirus. Potential cases were recently described in the British Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. The research adds to the growing body of literature on COVID-19's oral manifestations, which may include ulcers and geographic tongue.
Rise of the robots?
Last but not least, you don't want to miss our interview featuring Robin, a robot with big, inquisitive eyes who loves to play games and help children conquer their dental fears. In our video, Robin's creator, Karén Khachikyan, explains why he thinks social artificial intelligence machines like Robin will one day be the standard of dental care.
Speaking of social, did you know you can follow DrBicuspid on all your favorite platforms? Give us a follow on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to stay up to date on all the latest dental news.
