DIY teeth straightening: Please don’t try this at home!

July 14, 2022

Why shouldn't you try to straighten your teeth yourself? Let David R. Rice, DDS, count the reasons.

Rubber bands. Dental floss. Fishing line. Paper clips. YouTube and TikTok. They all have their purpose. But that purpose isn't straightening your teeth.

I understand the drive to try something at home that seems not only easy, but also saves a lot of money. Here I’ll show you why it’s anything but easy or money-saving in the long run. In fact, DIY teeth straightening can pose serious risks to your teeth and oral health.

More galleries by David R. Rice, DDS, chief editor of DentistryIQ:

6 early signs of gum disease

3 toothpastes to use with caution (or avoid completely)

About the Author

David R. Rice, DDS | Chief editor

Founder of the nation’s largest student and new-dentist community, igniteDDS, David R. Rice, DDS, travels the world speaking, writing, and connecting today’s top young dentists with tomorrow’s most successful dental practices. He is the editorial director of DentistryIQ and leads a team-centered restorative and implant practice in East Amherst, New York. With 27 years of practice in the books, Dr. Rice is trained at the Pankey Institute, the Dawson Academy, Spear Education, and most prolifically at the school of hard knocks. Contact him at [email protected].

DIY teeth straightening: Please don’t try this at home!

David R. Rice, DDS | Chief editor

Latest

5 oral indicators you or your patient might be in perimenopause: What every dental hygienist should know

“Woke coke” may be ethically sourced, but it’s still terrible for oral health

Are more mask mandates on the horizon?

A new type of diabetes: Meet diabetes 1.5

Patterson Companies will be acquired by Patient Square Capital for nearly $4.1 billion

Innovation leads to a better patient experience