From dipping testicles in soy sauce to snorting salt, a number of bizarre trends have circulated on TikTok in recent months.
Now, the latest trend sees people attempting to ‘straighten’ their teeth - using nail files.
In a series of videos, several TikTok users have tried to file their teeth down to an even length.
For example, one user called MiaDio, posted a video, saying: “I'm going to file my teeth down with a nail file because they're not perfect. I have some ridges, and we're balling on a budget."
While the technique does appear to make your teeth look smoother, dentists have warned that it could cause permanent damage.
Speaking to Refinery 29, Kami Hoss, CEO of The Super Dentists, explained: “You only get one set of adult teeth to last you a lifetime.
“If you mess up cutting your own hair, it’ll grow back in a few weeks, but your tooth structure will be gone forever, and the potential damage you may cause will not be reversible.”
Dr Hoss explained that filing your teeth could permanently damage your enamel - the hard, outer surface layer of your teeth.
He said: “The enamel on the surface of teeth is very thin, and once it's filed down, will never grow back.
“Without the proper thickness of enamel protecting your teeth, your teeth may end up with sensitivity or pain, they will become more prone to cavities, and they will lose their luster and white color."
Worryingly, filing your teeth could also cause them to yellow, according to Dr Hoss.
While dental work can be expensive, if you really want to level your teeth, Dr Hoss advises you seek expert advice.
