After more than 13 years as a Registered Dental Hygienist, I have seen people spend hundreds — sometimes thousands — of dollars trying to improve their smiles.

And I completely understand why.

Your smile impacts your confidence, your appearance, and how you show up every day.

But here is something I have learned from working with patients:

The most expensive option is not always the best option.

The oral care industry is filled with amazing products that can make a difference, but it is also filled with trendy treatments, viral products, and expensive services that may not provide the value people expect.

A higher price tag does not automatically mean better results.

So in the spirit of the current "things I would skip" trend, here are five oral care products and services I personally would think twice about spending money on — and what I would invest in instead.

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1. Traditional Dental Insurance Without Comparing Your Options

Potential cost: $300–$800+ per year (depending on your plan)

Let me start by saying: dental insurance can absolutely be valuable for some people.

If you need frequent dental treatment, have significant dental needs, or receive benefits through an employer, insurance may make sense.

However, one thing I wish more people understood is that dental insurance is not always the same as traditional health insurance.

Many dental plans come with:

• Annual maximum limits

• Waiting periods

• Coverage restrictions

• Limited benefits

• Complex rules about what is and is not covered

I have seen people pay monthly premiums for years while still struggling to afford the dental care they need.

Before purchasing a dental insurance plan, I encourage people to ask:

"Am I actually getting enough value from what I am paying?"

For some individuals, a dental savings plan may be worth exploring.

A dental savings plan is different from insurance. Instead of paying premiums for coverage, members typically pay an annual membership fee and receive discounted rates from participating dental providers.

The best option depends on your personal dental needs, but I never recommend choosing a plan without comparing the actual numbers.

What I would invest in instead:

✓ Preventive dental visits
✓ Consistent oral hygiene habits
✓ A plan that actually fits your specific needs

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2. Expensive In-Office Teeth Whitening When You Have Other Options

Potential cost: $500–$1,500+

Let me be clear:

Professional whitening can be an amazing option.

Many people love the convenience and fast results.

However, I do not believe everyone needs to spend over $1,000 to achieve a brighter smile.

One of the biggest misconceptions I see is that professional whitening is the only way to get noticeable results.

For many people, high-quality at-home whitening options can be a more practical and affordable choice.

The biggest factors that influence whitening success are:

• Choosing an appropriate product

• Following instructions

• Being consistent

• Maintaining good oral hygiene

A beautiful smile is not created by one treatment.

It is maintained through daily habits.

What I would invest in instead:

✓ A quality at-home whitening system
✓ Products designed for your sensitivity level
✓ A consistent smile maintenance routine

My philosophy:

I would rather see someone invest in habits they can maintain long-term than spend a large amount on a one-time treatment and neglect the basics.

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3. The Strongest-Burning Mouthwash Is Not Always the Best Mouthwash

Potential cost: $5–$15 per bottle

One of the biggest misconceptions in oral care is:

"If it burns, it must be working."

That intense, fresh feeling can make people think a mouthwash is more effective.

But the strongest sensation does not always mean the healthiest option for your mouth.

Many traditional mouthwashes contain alcohol, which can contribute to a drying sensation for some individuals.

And saliva is extremely important.

Your saliva helps:

• Protect your teeth

• Maintain your oral environment

• Support comfort in your mouth

For people who already experience dry mouth, sensitivity, or irritation, a strong alcohol-containing mouthwash may not be the best fit.

Also, mouthwash should never replace:

• Brushing

• Cleaning between teeth

• Regular dental care

What I would invest in instead:

✓ A mouthwash that matches your specific needs
✓ Products that support your oral environment
✓ A complete routine instead of relying on one product

The goal is not to find the mouthwash with the biggest "wow" factor.

The goal is to support your oral health.

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4. Charcoal Toothpaste Because It Looks Trendy

Potential cost: $8–$20 per tube

Charcoal toothpaste had a major moment online.

The black toothpaste. The dramatic before-and-after videos. The promise of a brighter smile.

It was incredibly marketable.

But one thing I have learned in dentistry:

A product being viral does not automatically mean it is the best option.

Many charcoal products focus heavily on appearance and marketing, but they are not always the most effective choice for someone's long-term whitening goals.

Some formulas may also be more abrasive depending on the product.

The biggest concern I have is when someone replaces a proven oral hygiene routine with a trendy product because it looks exciting online.

A healthy smile is built through consistency.

Not just viral ingredients.

What I would invest in instead:

✓ A toothpaste that supports your individual needs
✓ Proven oral hygiene habits
✓ Products chosen for function, not just aesthetics

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5. Luxury Oral Care Products That Are More About the Packaging Than the Results

Potential cost: $20–$100+

I love an aesthetically beautiful bathroom.

I love products that make routines feel elevated.

But there is a difference between:

"This product makes my routine better."

and:

"I bought this because it looked expensive."

The oral care industry has embraced the wellness trend, and while I love making self-care enjoyable, a higher price does not automatically mean better results.

A $50 toothpaste is not necessarily better than a thoughtfully chosen affordable toothpaste.

A beautiful toothbrush does not replace good technique.

A trendy product does not replace consistency.

When I evaluate oral care products, I look at:

✓ Does it solve a real problem?
✓ Is there a reason to use it?
✓ Will people actually stay consistent with it?
✓ Does it support better habits?

What I would invest in instead:

✓ Tools that make your routine easier
✓ Products you will actually use consistently
✓ Oral care upgrades with a purpose

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What I Would Spend My Money On Instead

After years in dentistry, these are the investments I believe provide the biggest return:

1. A Water Flosser

Especially for people who struggle with traditional flossing.

2. A Copper Tongue Scraper

Because your teeth are only one part of your mouth.

3. Preventive Dental Care

Small problems are usually easier and less expensive to address early.

4. Treatments That Improve Both Health and Confidence

Examples include orthodontic treatment, gum therapy, and personalized dental care.

5. Products Backed by Purpose

Not just products backed by trends.

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The Biggest Lesson I Have Learned as a Dental Hygienist

You do not need the most expensive smile routine.

You need the right one.

The best oral care investments are the ones that:

• Protect your natural teeth

• Support your health

• Fit your lifestyle

• Help you stay consistent

Your smile is something you use every single day.

Spend money intentionally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is dental insurance worth the money?

Dental insurance can be beneficial for some people, but others may find alternatives like dental savings plans worth comparing depending on their needs.

Is professional teeth whitening worth it?

Professional whitening can provide excellent results, but many people can achieve brighter smiles with consistent, quality at-home whitening options.

Is alcohol mouthwash bad for your teeth?

Alcohol-containing mouthwash is not automatically harmful for everyone, but some people may prefer alcohol-free options if they experience dryness or irritation.

Is charcoal toothpaste effective?

Charcoal toothpaste may help remove some surface stains, but it is not necessarily the best option for everyone's whitening goals.

Are expensive oral care products better?

Not always. The best oral care products are the ones that serve a purpose and help you maintain consistent habits.