“Peer Pressure Is Real”: Man Deeply Regrets Getting Gold Teeth Trend From the Past

• A South African man admitted that he regrets following the gold teeth trend that was popular a decade ago
• The viral post took viewers back to the early 2010s era of bold fashion and flashy confidence
• The viral confession became a funny but honest reflection on how quickly trends change over time
• Briefly News spoke to three dental professionals, including Kyle Cupido, Dr Timothy Tlhapane, and Sanda Mlambo, a BChD V student at the University of Western Cape, to get their take on the popular cosmetic trends of gold teeth and grills

South Africans loved the honesty of the gold teeth confession, turning it into a funny and nostalgic look back at the country’s flashiest fashion phase.

A man posted a video on 2 October 2025, revealing his biggest regret of getting gold teeth. In the clip, he showed two gold caps he still had, explaining that while they were trendy around 2014 and 2015, he now wishes he had never followed the fad. The short video drew immediate attention as viewers reminisced about that flashy era when gold smiles were symbols of status and confidence.

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In his reflection, content creator @kayone6ix spoke about how times and fashion evolve, and what once made people feel ‘cool’ can quickly lose relevance. Many South Africans could relate, recalling other bold trends that faded away with time. His post served as both a humorous confession and a gentle reminder that style can be fleeting, and what feels permanent can later become a regret.

Outdated 2010s fashion resurfaces

The video spread quickly across TikTok, attracting thousands of views and sparking conversations about how fashion cycles change. Within days, it received over 1,000 comments, with people laughing, sharing their old photos, and comparing their own style mishaps. It wasn’t just about gold teeth; it was about how people grow and how past choices often make for great stories later.

Viewers responded with humour and nostalgia, saying his honesty made them reflect on their own decisions. Some said trends like gold teeth defined an era of boldness, while others appreciated the maturity that comes with acknowledging mistakes. The clip proved that sometimes, a simple confession can start a national conversation about self-expression and evolution.

Kyle explained to Briefly News that gold teeth and grills are safe only when made by qualified professionals. Poorly fitted appliances can cause decay and gum issues, so education about long-term effects is key. Removable grills or Digital Smile Design are safer ways to express style. He said:

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"I don’t have a problem with gold teeth or grills as long as they’re made by a qualified dentist or dental technician. The problem comes when they’re poorly fitted, which can lead to plaque, gum disease, and permanent damage to teeth. Trends like these are influenced by celebrities, but as dental professionals, we guide patients toward safer options like removable grills or Digital Smile Design, which allow self-expression without harming teeth."

Dr Timothy noted that gold crowns require filing natural teeth, which is irreversible and costly to replace. Grills and tooth gems are less invasive. He stresses cultural influence and aesthetics, but urges patients to consider long-term effects and maintain good oral hygiene. He added:

"Gold crowns or onlays require filing down part of your teeth, which you can’t get back, and long-term replacements can be expensive. Grills and tooth gems are less invasive and allow self-expression without permanent damage. These trends are influenced by culture and what’s 'cool,' but it’s important to understand the long-term consequences and maintain proper oral hygiene."

Sanda warned that gold teeth and grills can lead to gum problems, fractures, and tooth decay if not professionally done. She recommends consulting dentists for proper fit and hygiene, and suggests tooth gems as a safer, removable alternative. He said:

"Grillz can cause gum problems, tooth movement, and fractures if not fitted correctly, and gold crowns can lead to decay and irreversible tooth loss. Patients should consult a dentist for proper impressions and hygiene guidance. Professionally placed tooth gems are a safer, removable alternative, while DIY methods can cause permanent damage."

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Mzansi reacted to the video

Slay Mom said:

“I’m laughing because I told you not to. 🤣🤣”

Golden visuals commented:

“I removed mine in 2021 and got my smile back.”

OG_Fuago said:

“I’m glad my mom said ‘no’ all those times. 🙏”

warrak88 added:

“I removed mine last month and got braces last week; I’m proud; my confidence got restored.”

nws_day wrote:

“Peer pressure is for real. 🥀”

Molemo Mosena said:

“Skhothane trend made it happen. 😂”

MANSKAP- commented:

“Worst part! 😭 I put them on my rabbit teeth.”

Zweli added:

“You were probably so excited that day. 🤣”

Check out the TikTok video below:

3 Briefly News stories related to teeth accessories

• A lawyer reportedly called it quits after a client offered his gold tooth as payment for his legal fees, prompting reactions online.
• A group of engineering students decided to test out if a current could flow through a platinum tooth, and SA loved the result.
• A dentist shared a video of a gold tooth removal, and the TikTok sparked South Africans' attention.

Source: Briefly News