The New TikTok Jawline Trend That’s Hazardous to Your Teeth

TikTok is full of eye-catching trends, but some of them come with hidden dangers. One of the latest crazes, aimed at achieving a sharper jawline, involves chewing rock-hard gum. While it’s gaining traction, dentists are raising red flags, warning that this new “fitness” hack can cause serious damage to your teeth and jaw.

What’s the Trend All About?

The premise behind this trend is that chewing very tough gum strengthens the masseter muscles in the jaw. Supposedly, this muscle growth will lead to a more defined and chiseled look. Several brands, like Jawliner, even market these products specifically for jawline workouts. TikTok videos promoting the trend often show users chewing the gum for extended periods, far beyond the recommended 10-15 minutes. Unfortunately, what’s missing in these videos is a discussion about the risks.

Why It’s Harmful to Your Teeth and Jaw

Chewing extremely hard gum places more stress on your teeth and jaw than they’re meant to handle. This excess pressure can wear down tooth enamel, cause cracks, or even break teeth altogether. Unlike regular chewing gum, these products are designed to be tougher, which means more force is needed to chew them. Over time, this constant strain can also affect your temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The TMJ connects your lower jaw to your skull, and overworking it can result in severe jaw pain, headaches, and even difficulty opening your mouth.

The Long-Term Impact: TMJ Disorders and More

If the jaw joint becomes compromised, it could lead to chronic conditions that require professional intervention. TMJ disorders often result in a clicking or popping sound when opening and closing the mouth, jaw pain, or even lockjaw. Severe cases might require corrective procedures or even surgery to fix. This is why dentists are so concerned—the potential long-term damage far outweighs any temporary benefit.

Safe Alternatives and Expert Advice at Bayshore Dental Center in Seffner, FL

Improving your jawline can’t be done by chewing gum alone. If you’re looking to enhance your facial features, focus on overall health and fitness instead. For any jaw concerns, it’s always best to consult a professional. At Bayshore Dental Center in Seffner, FL, Dr. Omari Sheehy advises patients to steer clear of risky trends like this one. If you have questions about your jaw health or want guidance on safe dental practices, reach out to schedule a consultation today!

CONTACT US