What You Should Know About Activated Charcoal Teeth Whitening: We have your questions answered

By now, you’ve probably all heard the buzz circulating activated charcoal and its ability to whiten teeth. You probably also have lots of questions about it. What exactly is this product? How does it supposedly magically whiten our teeth? Is it safe?

Health trends come and go, so it can be difficult to know which ones are actually beneficial. There has so much buzz about activated charcoal on social media and celebrity blogs, but does it really work?

Brushing, flossing, and regular dentist visits are the best ways to maximize your dental health. But, we know you’re curious about activated charcoal and have lots of questions, so here’s an overview.

What is activated charcoal?

Activated charcoal is a substance commonly used to treat medical conditions, like intestinal gas, cholestasis during pregnancy, some drug overdoses, and low cholesterol. Because of the pores in activated charcoal, it absorbs toxins and chemicals, making it great for the hospital setting.

When you brush your teeth with activated charcoal, the charcoal’s pores bind with any rough parts on the teeth, which are usually surface stains and plaque. Once it binds to these surfaces, it removes the plaque, food particles, and surface stains on your teeth with it. Although activated charcoal may succeed in whitening teeth, it doesn’t change the color of the teeth that are deeply stained or beginning to naturally yellow. Professional bleaching is the only whitening method that will drastically change the color of stained teeth.

Does brushing with activated charcoal have any side effects?

Yes. Activated charcoal could potentially damage the enamel of your teeth. You do not want to scrub your teeth with activated charcoal because the abrasiveness can damage or chip your teeth. Remember, teeth are the only part of our ectoderm that doesn’t heal. Once the enamel on our teeth is gone, it’s gone. If you use activated charcoal, be very careful to only lightly graze your teeth while applying the charcoal to them.

The long-term effects of brushing with activated charcoal are not yet known. It’s because of this that the American Dental Association hasn’t yet evaluated or approved charcoal teeth whitening products. It’s possible that brushing with activated charcoal at least twice a day could stain your gums black because of the dark pigment building up on your gums.

What about activated charcoal toothpaste?

Instead of brushing your teeth with 100% activated charcoal powder, trying a toothpaste that contains activated charcoal may be a better option. This way, you won’t have to worry about the abrasiveness damaging your teeth or the dark pigmentation staining your gums.

Before using activated charcoal or embracing any dental health trend, it’s a good idea to talk to your dentist. The safest, most effective whitening procedures should be performed in the dentist office.

If you’re on the hunt for a whiter, brighter smile – why not come in for a consultation? We have some great options that are proven effective and safe for your teeth. Schedule your appointment here.

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