Activated charcoal is showing up in a wide variety of products today due to aggressively marketing them as safe and effective for many health benefits. For example, in dentistry, one of the common claims is that activated charcoal can whiten teeth. But is charcoal toothpaste safe, and does it deliver on its promise to give you a brighter smile?
To find out how you can get a cleaner, bright smile schedule an appointment with Trident General Dentistry.
What is Activated Charcoal?
Activated charcoal is the black powder that results from slowly burning natural materials such as wood. Manufacturers make it by heating regular charcoal for medicinal purposes, leading to a more porous final product. This allows activated charcoal to absorb and trap toxic substances effectively.
What is Charcoal Toothpaste?
Proponents of charcoal toothpaste claim that activated charcoal binds with the less smooth and more porous areas on teeth which are typically caused by dental plaque. After adequate time for the charcoal to stick to the teeth, brushing removes the stain along with plaque and food particles.
Can Charcoal Toothpaste Harm Teeth?
While there has not been much research about the safety of charcoal toothpaste, some experts have concerns. These concerns include:
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Abrasive. A few small studies found charcoal toothpaste excessively abrasive. The concern is that it may erode dental enamel. Depending on the thickness of your enamel, this can result in an increased risk of tooth decay, tooth sensitivity, and yellowish discoloration.
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Carcinogenic. Various experts have warned of the possible carcinogenic effects of charcoal. Additionally, many brands of charcoal toothpaste contain another carcinogen, crystalline silica.
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Causes Cavities. In addition to abrading enamel, most charcoal toothpaste products have no fluoride. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), fluoride has a history of effectively decreasing the risk of tooth decay.
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Stains. Charcoal particles may accumulate in the pits, grooves, and cracks found in teeth. This can result in a darker discoloration that can offset the removal of some surface stains.
Does Charcoal Toothpaste Whiten Teeth?
The abrasiveness of charcoal toothpaste can remove some surface stains. However, numerous toothpaste products can have the same effect without the risks associated with the more unproven charcoal products. In addition, these proven traditional kinds of toothpaste have the marked advantage of having been thoroughly studied and used for a long time without causing any problems.
The American Dental Association and Charcoal Toothpaste
The American Dental Association has acknowledged that charcoal toothpaste and charcoal-impregnated toothbrushes have appeared in the marketplace. These products are heavily marketed on the internet and make claims to whiten teeth safely and effectively. A few of these products also claim antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal. Others also promise “oral detoxification” when used.
The ADA studied over one hundred research articles. It concluded that there is insufficient data to support the claims of the safety and efficacy of charcoal toothpaste. Therefore, the ADA recommends that dentists caution their patients who choose to use these products and offer education about the lack of scientific studies to support their use.
What Are the Best Options for Whitening Teeth?
Before beginning to whiten your teeth at home, it is important to consult your dentist. There are many causes of tooth discoloration, and several require professional treatment. Some at-home teeth whitening products can effectively help whiten by removing surface stain. However, you may need professional teeth whitening for discoloration caused by:
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Trauma
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Tooth decay
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Medicines such as tetracycline
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Worn enamel
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Tobacco products
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Dental fillings
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Genetics
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Fluorosis
Schedule an Appointment
To learn more about your best option for whiter teeth and a brighter smile call, Trident General Dentistry for a consultation appointment.