Are you thinking about trying out the latest Instagram trend – charcoal toothpaste? If so, you might want to hold off on applying this black foam to your teeth until you’ve read this article. Here we’ll look at what charcoal really is, whether it’s safe to use, and whether charcoal toothpaste actually works.
What Is Charcoal?
The charcoal used in toothpaste is not the same that you use for the grill. This type is “activated.” What does this mean? The materials it’s made from (wood, peat, coal, coconut shells and other substances) are exposed to a special gas to make the material more porous. This allows the activated charcoal to soak up a variety of substances and trap chemicals.
What Does It Do?
Activated charcoal is a mild abrasive, so it is believed to help remove surface stains on your teeth. However, there is no real scientific evidence to prove that it has natural whitening properties or that it can remove stains below the enamel. In fact, the jury is still out on whether it’s actually effective or not at all.
Is It Safe?
Charcoal isn’t dangerous, but many dentists are advising their patients against using charcoal for several reasons. The biggest concern is that it can wear down your enamel. This, in turn, can expose your dentin and make your teeth look yellow (pretty much the exact opposite of what you’re trying to achieve in the first place). If you think that’s bad, some people have also experienced grey-charcoal staining on their dental restorations, and between cracks and crevices of their other teeth. Even worse, damage to your enamel can also make your teeth more susceptible to plaque and cavities. All the more reason to stay clear.
Should You Use It?
The long-term effects of charcoal are not yet readily known, so at this time we don’t recommend using it until more evidence can prove that it can whiten your smile safely. The bottom line is, before using any substance or treatment on your teeth, you should always consult with your dentist first. They will be able to recommend safe and effective teeth whitening solutions that won’t damage your enamel or further stain your teeth.
If you’re looking to whiten your teeth, we have a solution for you! Our dental clinic uses professionally teeth whitening solutions. We’ll create a complete whitening plan for you that ensures consistent results and brighter whiter smile. To learn more about our teeth whitening services at the Teal Umbrella, contact us today to set up an appointment!
