One of the first things people notice about you is your smile and many people feel that sparkling white teeth are a highly attractive feature. If yours are stained yellow or brown, it’s natural to feel self-conscious or overly anxious about how others will perceive you. There are many ways you can lighten their shade, from over-the-counter kits to professional whitening with your dentist.
Several home remedies are rumored to brighten your grin, too. For example, many people believe using activated charcoal can naturally remove stains. If you’ve heard about this fad and are curious whether it works, keep reading to find out!
What is Activated Charcoal?
It’s easy to assume this is the same material as the blocks you use when you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, but that’s not the case. The charcoal you grill with is intended to be fuel for fire and emits carbon dioxide when heated. If consumed, it could have carcinogenic effects on your health.
Activated charcoal doesn’t have the same toxins because it’s exposed to a special gas that causes it to develop large pores. This makes it more absorbent so that it can soak up various substances. It can be used to absorb poison from your gut if you have a drug overdose, reduce bodily odor, and even whiten your teeth.
Does Activated Charcoal Whiten Teeth?
There are many kinds of toothpaste containing activated charcoal that claim to brighten your teeth, among other benefits. Some manufacturers advertise that their products can remineralize them to make them stronger, as well as function as an antimicrobial to help defend against disease and infection. Unfortunately, researchers have found that there’s not enough scientific or clinical data to support these claims. If you try it, you might be disappointed that you can’t achieve the results you hoped for.
Is It Safe to Whiten Teeth with Activated Charcoal?
Not only could you waste money if the charcoal doesn’t effectively whiten your grin, but in some cases it can even harm them. Before trying black toothpaste, you should ask your dentist whether it’s recommended because it’s been known to:
- Thin enamel. Using too much activated charcoal can wear down your enamel over time. The American Dental Association recommends choosing toothpastes with a relative dentin abrasivity (RDA) level of 250 or less. Also, many dentists recommend a supplemental fluoride rinse to strengthen the protective outer layer.
- Abrade your teeth. Although the black substance is ground to a fine powder, it’s more abrasive than standard toothpaste and can gouge the surface of your teeth. Because these pastes have larger particles, they can leave your pearly whites with a rougher texture. Bacteria can more easily cling to the surface and cause tooth decay or gum disease.
If you’re looking for an effective way to whiten your teeth, why not start with your dentist? They can safely lighten your smile by several shades with a single in-office visit or provide take-home kits using professional ingredients that minimize sensitivity while maximizing results!
About the Practice
At Khoi Dental Group (formerly Carlson Dental Group), you and your family benefit from two highly qualified dentists who offer a wide range of services under one roof. With decades of combined experience, they’re experienced in handling everything from routine checkups to more complex procedures. Combining a compassionate approach with their state-of-the-art facility allows them to create a world-class experience for every patient. If you’re frustrated by discoloration, they provide both in-office teeth whitening and take-home kits with professional gels and customized trays. You’re welcome to request a consultation appointment on the website or by calling (904) 262-8449.