These days, it seems like you can’t turn on the TV without seeing an advertisement for some form of DIY clear aligners. They promise to do the same job as traditional orthodontics or Invisalign with a dentist at a fraction of the cost. They pepper in some pictures and testimonials to try and establish their legitimacy.

Even worse, there is an online trend of vloggers teaching people how to make their own braces out of household supplies. While the prospect of saving some money might be tempting, these DIY options come with substantial physical and financial risks.

A warm, inviting smile can tell others that you’re approachable and friendly. Unfortunately, even if you brush and floss every day and make regular visits to the dentist, simple things that you do routinely can put your smile at risk. The two biggest daily risks to your teeth are chipping and staining. However, a little bit of common sense can keep you smiling and save you from a trip to the dentist.