Many of us have probably seen “activated charcoal toothpaste” advertised to us in some way. You may have seen it at the store and wondered if their claims are actually true. Can charcoal actually whiten your teeth? Does it prevent staining when used consistently? These toothpastes are sold in many different places across the United States, but they may not provide the benefits patients are looking for. Products you see on the internet or in ads may not be completely safe, so we have gathered important information about charcoal and common toothpaste claims to give patients proper information before they make a decision. 

What Is Activated Charcoal?

A fine black powder that is made from carbon-rich materials like coconut shells, wood, or bamboo, which are heated to high temperatures (between 1,000 and 1,600 degrees Fahrenheit). This heating process creates tiny pores and increases the surface area of the material, allowing it to help trap and absorb impurities and toxins. Fine particles are common with charcoal, which is why many professionals have labeled charcoal toothpastes as potentially harmful. These particles may become trapped in your gums and can be quite abrasive to enamel as well. 

Proposed Benefits Of Charcoal Toothpaste

There are a few common benefits that producers of charcoal toothpaste claim their products provide. Charcoal toothpaste is often seen as a way to whiten your teeth, but there are a few other benefits that have circulated around the internet or dental groups. 

Whitening

Using charcoal in a toothpaste helps to remove certain surface stains because of its abrasive properties. While charcoal has been shown to remove some stains or discoloration, there is not enough scientific evidence to prove it truly whitens teeth. 

Reduce Bad Breath

Similar to all toothpaste options, charcoal is said to help with bad breath, providing a deeper clean that removes bacteria. Since charcoal has been on the market for a short time, there isn’t enough evidence to show how it affects your oral health long term. Charcoal toothpaste also doesn’t have fluoride or other additives that help kill bacteria and make enamel stronger. Since activated charcoal is odorless and flavorless, manufacturers may add oils or herbs to create a mint or eucalyptus taste for patients. These may give the illusion of better breath, without changing anything about the state of your mouth.

Prevents Stains When Combined With Professional Cleaning

Using charcoal toothpaste consistently is said to help prevent long-term staining of the teeth. Frequently visiting your dentist to get a cleaning will remove harmful plaque build-up from the teeth and gums, while also providing a deeper clean that surface-level toothpastes can provide. Brushing with any toothpaste and visiting the dentist will help keep your teeth looking pristine, but it does not prevent stains. 

Drawbacks Of Charcoal Toothpaste

Even with the limited research on activated charcoal, some negative effects have been observed in patients who use it frequently. One of the biggest drawbacks is that activated charcoal is abrasive, meaning it can wear on the enamel of your teeth when used daily. Wearing down the enamel of your teeth may actually make them more prone to staining or turning yellow, while also making them sensitive to foods or cold temperatures. 

Charcoal toothpaste also doesn’t contain fluoride, which is often essential for protecting against cavities, gum disease, and overall oral decay. Using a fluoride toothpaste helps to limit the bad bacteria in your mouth, helping you have better teeth into later adulthood. 

Other Options For Teeth Whitening

Dentists recommend the best way to whiten your smile is to keep up with oral hygiene practices. However, there are other natural and medical ways to whiten your teeth that don’t involve activated charcoal. 

Additional options for whitening your teeth while maintaining optimal oral health include:

• Limiting coffee, wine, soda, and alcohol that stains tooth enamel
• Dental office whitening options (trays or in-chair bleaching)
• American Dental Association-approved toothpastes for whitening
• Over-the-counter whitening strips or trays (use with caution)
• Frequent dental visits for cleanings and check-ups

Services From Jenson Dental

Our dental team is committed to creating brilliant smiles through many different services. Jenson Dental is a family dentist that offers services including fillings, extractions, cleanings, bridges, teeth whitening, full mouth restoration, dentures, and more. One of the first things people notice about you is your smile, which may make you more self-conscious of your teeth. Jenson Dental wants to help you achieve better confidence in your smile and maintain your oral health through our comprehensive services. 

You can rely on our team to help improve the state of your teeth through tested and safe services. As the top-rated dentist in Brigham City, you know that you are in good hands when visiting our office. Give us a call to schedule your appointment today!