THE TRUTH BEHIND CHARCOAL TOOTHPASTE
As we get older, our teeth naturally lose their pearly whiteness, prompting us to search for a solution that can help restore a pristine smile and a strong sense of self-confidence. One of the most popular recent options for teeth whitening is toothpaste infused with activated charcoal. Does charcoal actually help brighten your teeth? Or is it just another fad that will fade away with time? Below we will examine the efficacy and safety of charcoal toothpaste.
What is activated charcoal?
Charcoal is made from coal, peat, sawdust, bone char, and other origins. Once it is heated, it is considered “activated,” and it can be used to help prevent toxins from entering the body.
Other uses for activated charcoal include nursing hangovers, preventing flatulence, and reducing cholesterol. While not backed by any formal scientific studies, many claim that activated charcoal can help reduce dental plaque and absorb the stains from coffee, wine, and smoking.
What does the current research say about activated charcoal?
In 2017, the American Dental Association reported that there is little evidence to back claims that charcoal toothpaste is safe or effective. Some dentists worry that the charcoal in toothpaste can be abrasive and wear down the tooth enamel, exposing the softer dentin layer. The ADA recommends using toothpastes with an RDA (relative dentin abrasivity) of 250 or lower.
Are charcoal toothpastes good for teeth whitening?
The prevailing wisdom states that charcoal toothpastes probably don’t stay on the teeth long enough to produce any meaningful degree of teeth lightening. It is unlikely that a toothpaste can remove deep-seated stains from your smile. Stain removal is best performed under the guidance of an experienced dental professional who has the proper tools and can monitor the health of your teeth during the whitening process.
What are some alternatives to charcoal toothpaste?
Instead of using charcoal, you might try mixing baking soda with water, which can not only brighten the smile but can also refresh your breath. Diluted hydrogen peroxide can also gradually lighten the teeth over time. Of course, if you’re really interested in lifting the color of your teeth multiple shades, the best path is always to see your dentist for professional teeth whitening services. This may be the safest and most cost-effective approach in the long run.
What is the takeaway?
There is a certain vulnerability that comes with aging, as older patients are eager to buy products and services they think will help them look and feel more youthful. As with any cosmetic product, however, it’s important to investigate the science and find out whether you are really getting what you’re paying for. Seeing a dentist for teeth whitening may at first glance seem more time-consuming and expensive than buying a charcoal toothpaste, but when you factor in the damage that charcoal might do in terms of eroding your tooth enamel, professional teeth whitening may begin to seem like the more viable choice.
At Bayview Dental Arts, we offer the cutting-edge Zoom! Teeth Whitening technology. Call us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about our state-of-the-art cosmetic dentistry solutions.