Learning Objectives: 

• Evaluate viral oral-care products using active ingredients, mechanism of action, available evidence, limitations, and patient-specific risk.
• Differentiate between products that remove extrinsic stain, chemically bleach teeth, temporarily alter optical appearance, or support remineralization.
• Identify potential risks associated with trending products and DIY oral-care practices, including abrasive whitening, improper peroxide use, and at-home instrumentation.
• Apply an evidence-based communication framework to confidently discuss trending oral-care products and make individualized recommendations without dismissing patient concerns.

Patients are arriving in the operatory with oral-care recommendations long before the dental professional ever has the opportunity to provide one. Social media has accelerated the popularity of hydroxyapatite toothpaste, purple color-correcting products, charcoal toothpastes, whitening strips, LED whitening devices, oil pulling, DIY whitening techniques, and even at-home dental scalers. The challenge for today’s hygienist is no longer simply knowing what products exist—it is knowing how to quickly determine what is supported by evidence, what may have a limited role, and what could cause harm.  In this fast-paced, interactive course, participants will evaluate viral oral-care trends through a recurring BUY IT / MAYBE / SKIP IT / PLEASE DON’T framework. Rather than memorizing individual brands, attendees will examine active ingredients, mechanisms of action, current evidence, limitations, patient selection, and potential adverse effects. Special attention will be given to fluoride versus hydroxyapatite, stain removal versus true bleaching, peroxide-based whitening, optical color correction, light-activated whitening, abrasivity, sensitivity, and common DIY practices.  Participants will leave with a practical method for evaluating the next viral product that enters their operatory—as well as patient-friendly language for discussing these trends without judgment. The goal is to help hygienists become the trusted professional patients turn to after social media raises the question.