TikTok Teeth Whitening Hack Using Hydrogen Peroxide Goes Viral — but, Is It Safe?

Many TikTok hacks have become useful tools that people can implement in their everyday lives, such as prolonging the lifespan of your avocado from turning brown, beauty tips and tricks that can help even the most unskilled individual achieve a perfect winged eyeliner, or how to save money at your favorite fast food places. 

Yes, the viral Gen Z app is good for more than just watching users create cringe-worthy videos of themselves dancing or lip-syncing. 

While many TikTok videos and hacks can be beneficial, some are more dangerous and not recommended by medical professionals to participate in. Most recently, a new viral teeth whitening hack has been circulating around the social media app. So, is it safe? Keep reading to find out more.

Who doesn't want pearly white teeth? Drinking coffee, wine, and just the wear and tear of everyday life can have an effect on the color of your teeth. So, it's no surprise that teeth whitening has become a popular treatment for people to undergo. Unfortunately, getting the medical-grade procedure done at your dentist can set you back well over $500. 

Luckily, companies such as Crest have created teeth whitening kits that people can purchase for approximately $50.  

Now, a TikTok user is offering people another way to get whiter teeth, using 3 percent hydrogen peroxide. User @clauds244 has gone viral after explaining that she puts 3 percent hydrogen peroxide on cotton swabs and rubs it on her teeth. She told her followers that it is the same ingredient used in store-bought whitening kits. Adding, "If you're a dentist, don't tell me this is wrong."

According to Health.com, @clauds244 is based in the U.K., and using "3% hydrogen peroxide is over the legal percentage (0.1%) that is allowed to be used by non-dental professionals." 

However, teeth whitening products in the United States are reportedly able to contain up to 15 percent of hydrogen peroxide. 

In the video, the TikToker claims she uses the product every day. But, health professionals do advise against prolonged use.  

“Prolonged bleaching with these high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, especially when used multiple days in a row, can lead to highly irritated gums and sensitive teeth,” dentist and Waterpik spokesperson Chris Strandburg told Health. 

He continued, “Gum irritation can get severe if more bleaching is done when the gums are already irritated. Tooth sensitivity is usually temporary (24 hours or so), but significant bleaching can increase tooth sensitivity permanently with long term use.”  

Overall, it's better to be more cautious before deciding to bleach your teeth daily per a TikToker's instructions. So, do research and even dilute the product with water before using.