The enamel can actually begin to erode with regular use and brushing with charcoal, exposing the softer, yellow dentin layer beneath. Activated charcoal is an abrasive substance, so most dentists won’t suggest using it.

In terms of dietary health as well as dental care, activated charcoal has emerged as an exciting new health trend. Even though it might appear healthy, it might actually be harmful to your teeth. You should be aware of the following.

Is Charcoal Toothpaste Safe?

The effects of charcoal toothpaste over the long term require more study. Due to unproven claims and safety concerns, dentists should caution their patients against using charcoal-based toothpaste.

Here’s what we do know about charcoal toothpaste so far:

• Too abrasive to be used on a daily basis is charcoal toothpaste. The enamel on your teeth can erode if you use a material that is too abrasive. By exposing the dentin, a yellow tissue that has calcified over time, this could give your teeth a more yellow appearance. Your teeth may become more sensitive as a result.
• Fluoride is absent from the majority of charcoal toothpaste brands. Your tooth enamel is kept strong by fluoride, which helps to guard your teeth against decay and cavities. The use of charcoal toothpaste has been linked to an increase in tooth decay in some studies.
• Some teeth might become stained as a result. Older teeth may develop accumulations of charcoal in their fissures and cracks.
• Unknown is how charcoal will affect dental restorations. The effects of charcoal on the components used to create veneers, bridges, crowns, and white fillings are still unknown. Between them, there might be a buildup of charcoal, leaving a black or gray outline.

Pros & Cons of Charcoal Toothpaste

Pros:

• Your teeth’s surface stains might be removed with its assistance.
• Bad breath might be lessened.
• When used occasionally after a professional cleaning, it might aid in stain prevention.

Cons:

• It is abrasive and could damage tooth enamel, turning teeth yellow.
• Below-the-enamel stains are not removed.
• Tooth sensitivity may result from routine use.
• Fluoride, which aids in guarding against cavities and tooth decay, is typically absent from most brands.
• Older teeth and dental restorations like veneers, bridges, crowns, and white fillings may become stained.
• Its long-term effects and safety are still unknown.

What is Activated Charcoal and How is It Used?

Burned materials are used to create the black powder known as activated charcoal. Because it is porous enough to absorb some toxins, activated charcoal is most frequently used to avoid poisoning. Toxins and poison are absorbed in the stomach by the activated charcoal without causing any harm. Animals and people can both use this ingredient in this manner. So, many foods and soaps now contain activated charcoal as a popular ingredient.

Because activated charcoal is used to remove stains from teeth and make them appear brighter and whiter, it is intended to whiten teeth when it is added to toothpaste. Furthermore, it is not required to be a component of toothpaste; some people simply purchase activated charcoal powder and use it in the same manner as baking soda. There are risks involved, even though this may initially seem to be very effective.

What Does Activated Charcoal Do to Your Teeth?

Due to the fine, abrasive grains that make up activated charcoal, which wear the stains off, it can lighten stains on your teeth. This is comparable to the use of baking soda, which is not advised by many dentists. Since charcoal is abrasive, it can cut through plaque and begin wearing away your teeth’s enamel. Your teeth will be more susceptible to cavities and sensitivity because enamel cannot be replaced.

What Do Studies Show About Activated Charcoal?

The fact that charcoal toothpaste hasn’t been proven to be effective is one of the reasons dentists are reluctant to suggest it. Because it removes toxins from the stomach, activated charcoal is a common ingredient in health products. However, it has little direct contact with teeth.

You may not actually benefit from using activated charcoal on your teeth since studies have not demonstrated that it enhances dental health.

What Are the Side Effects of Activated Charcoal?

Activated charcoal may actually have the opposite effect, some dentists have warned. Because stains and plaque have been removed, your teeth appear to be brighter in the short term. Your tooth enamel, however, will deteriorate over time. The dentin inside of your teeth will start to show: that’s the “meat” inside of your teeth. Because the dentin is a deeper shade, your teeth will appear darker.

Long-term charcoal use will add up because tooth enamel cannot be regrown. It’s important to take care not to wear anything other than the plaque down if you decide to use this method.

Should You Use Activated Charcoal for Teeth Whitening?

Considering all of this, charcoal tooth whitening may not be the worst option even though it isn’t necessarily good for your teeth. According to some dentists, you can use it once a month or so to remove stains from your enamel.

If you use a fine charcoal toothpaste carefully, activated charcoal won’t do much harm to your teeth, and it’s completely safe to consume. However, there are ultimately better and safer approaches to enhancing the appearance and health of your teeth.

The majority of at-home tooth whitening methods are, in fact, somewhat risky. The sensitivity of teeth after bleaching can last a lifetime. Your tooth enamel can be damaged by abrasive substances like baking soda and charcoal, increasing your risk of developing dental problems.

The Bottom Line

Despite receiving a lot of media coverage and attention, charcoal toothpaste does not outperform other toothpastes or over-the-counter whitening products.

Due to the few studies that have been done, it might be able to help remove surface stains, but its long-term effectiveness is still unknown. Consult a dentist to determine the most effective whitening method for you.