Unhelpful Dental Fads to Avoid | Farmington Dental & Orthodontics

In the quest for a brighter smile and optimal oral health, it’s not uncommon for individuals to be drawn to various dental fads that promise quick fixes. However, it’s essential to exercise caution and steer clear of practices that may do more harm than good. Here are five common dental fads we recommend steering clear of.

Unsupervised Teeth Straightening

Online tutorials and mail-order aligner kits may tempt those desiring a straighter smile without the commitment of professional orthodontic care. Unfortunately, attempting to straighten teeth without proper supervision can lead to bite issues, worse misalignment, and even tooth loss.

Charcoal Toothpaste

Although charcoal toothpaste is often touted as a natural teeth-whitening remedy, its abrasive nature can erode tooth enamel if it is used too much. Thin enamel can result in increased tooth sensitivity and a higher risk of cavities. Opt for professional teeth whitening at the dentist, which is safer and more effective with longer-lasting results.

Oil Pulling

Oil pulling involves swishing oil, such as coconut or sesame oil, in the mouth for an extended period of time in an attempt to detoxify the mouth and improve oral health. Because oil pulling is not evidence-based, relying solely on this practice may hurt your oral health. Oil pulling can be used supplementally but we recommend brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste, flossing every day, and brushing your tongue every day.

Lemon Juice for Teeth Whitening

The acidity of lemon juice can erode tooth enamel, leading to weakened teeth and increased sensitivity. Using lemon juice as a DIY teeth-whitening agent is uncomfortable and harmful!

Hydrogen Peroxide Swishing

Using undiluted hydrogen peroxide can be harsh on oral tissues and can cause irritation and damage to the gums.

Comprehensive Dental Care in Farmington, AR

Though dental fads are tempting, the pursuit of a healthy smile should be guided by evidence-based dental practices. At Farmington Dental & Orthodontics, our team can give you personalized advice about how to improve the health and appearance of your smile. We offer comprehensive dentistry, including professional teeth whitening, orthodontic services, and more! Contact us today for safe dental care tailored to your needs.

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Patient Reviews

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
    Lisa Hendrix 
 November 5, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. From the time I walked through the door I was treated with understanding & kindness. Everyone that I dealt with are very knowledgeable, patient & kind. I had avoided dentists longer than I care to admit but once I found Nick Dollar I will never look for another dentist. I recommend his office to ANYONE who is looking for a dentist. No one asked me to give a review...I did it because I truly believe in his work, people skills & staff is top notch. I usually dont take this kind of time for reviews but they are worth it.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Nicholas Rolfe 
 September 3, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. So I’ve neglected going to the dentist for half my life and I decided to go here because this was the last place I went when I was 16. They still had me on file, Toni at the front desk was more than helpful. Full of laughter. The coffee machine was on point. And Ashley in the back made the scary experience enjoyable and full of positives that I will surely carry with me. See y’all at my deep clean.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Baronger Bieger 
 May 13, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I've been going to Farmington Dental for years and have never had a negative experience. I only write this review now because I had a particularly helpful visit. While there for a routine cleaning, I got to talking with Kristin about the microbiology classes I teach. She made some observations that inspired me to approach the latter half of the semester differently, and it was a super helpful change! I guess all that is to say that the workers are competent...but also pleasant and helpful. :P
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Joshua O'Rourke 
 April 10, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve had traumatic dental experiences in the past and am unfortunately one of those people who require a little more juice to get fully numbed. Farmington Dental not only managed to numb me completely but also prescribed an anxiety medication for the visit which helped ease the tension of getting in the chair. This is one of two dental experiences I can remember without experiencing pain and the other experience I was asleep. I’ll definitely be going back.

See All Reviews

Lisa Hendrix

November 5, 2025

From the time I walked through the door I was treated with understanding & kindness. Everyone that I dealt with are very knowledgeable, patient & kind. I had avoided dentists longer than I care to admit but once I found Nick Dollar I will never look for another dentist. I recommend his office to ANYONE who is looking for a dentist. No one asked me to give a review...I did it because I truly believe in his work, people skills & staff is top notch. I usually dont take this kind of time for reviews but they are worth it.

Nicholas Rolfe

September 3, 2025

So I’ve neglected going to the dentist for half my life and I decided to go here because this was the last place I went when I was 16. They still had me on file, Toni at the front desk was more than helpful. Full of laughter. The coffee machine was on point. And Ashley in the back made the scary experience enjoyable and full of positives that I will surely carry with me. See y’all at my deep clean.

Baronger Bieger

May 13, 2025

I've been going to Farmington Dental for years and have never had a negative experience. I only write this review now because I had a particularly helpful visit. While there for a routine cleaning, I got to talking with Kristin about the microbiology classes I teach. She made some observations that inspired me to approach the latter half of the semester differently, and it was a super helpful change! I guess all that is to say that the workers are competent...but also pleasant and helpful. :P

Joshua O'Rourke

April 10, 2025

I’ve had traumatic dental experiences in the past and am unfortunately one of those people who require a little more juice to get fully numbed. Farmington Dental not only managed to numb me completely but also prescribed an anxiety medication for the visit which helped ease the tension of getting in the chair. This is one of two dental experiences I can remember without experiencing pain and the other experience I was asleep. I’ll definitely be going back.