Credit: ©iStock/Thinkstock

In Thailand fake 'fashion' braces are being worn by teenagers without a need for orthodontic treatment, as fixed appliance therapy is seen as expensive and 'cool'.

Credit: ©iStock/Thinkstock

In Senegal and other parts of West Africa, women are having their gums permanently (and painfully) dyed black, as darker gums are deemed a sign of beauty.

Credit: ©iStock/Thinkstock

Twigs from the Salvadora persica (arak) tree are used by Arab Bedouin tribes to clean their teeth. Miswak sticks, as they are known, contain antiseptic properties.

Credit: ©iStock/Thinkstock

A craze for LED mouthguard-esque inserts has taken off in Japan to make your smile literally light up the room, advertised as a 'party in your mouth'.

Credit: ©iStock/Thinkstock

In Australia, Aboriginal holy men pierce their tongues as a way to take evil spirits out of the body.