The whiter your teeth are, the easier it is to smile and be more confident. If you think your teeth are becoming a little yellow, you have several options. Activated charcoal has become a popular choice for teeth whitening. But, consider discussing with your dentist before deciding what to do.
Health and beauty trends are sweeping social media with activated charcoal. Activated charcoal is present in a wide range of beauty products, from face masks to foot scrubs. It is becoming more popular for teeth whitening. But the question is, could activated charcoal be used to whiten teeth? Would it be safe to use if it did?
This article answers common questions to have a better understanding of activated charcoal.
Can you use activated charcoal to whiten teeth?
You need to be aware of the risks associated with activated charcoal products. Even if they do whiten your teeth to some degree. Abrasive materials, like charcoal, can harm your teeth. Since teeth can’t grow or heal themselves from damage. Thus, any product that strips away the enamel is not good.
Also, some charcoal products are abrasive. You can use the Relative Dentin Abrasivity (RDA) for checking activated charcoal products. The RDA measures how rough U.S. FDA-approved products are. A score of 200 or less is safe for consumption. You should still use charcoal toothpaste only in moderation, even if it is under 200. Due to a lack of regulation, it may be harsher.
Does activated charcoal whiten teeth?
From toothpaste to tooth whitening kits, activated charcoal can be found in various dental products.
Despite their claims, there is no scientific evidence that activated charcoal works to remove stains. So, ADA does not endorse activated charcoal products as effective.
Does activated charcoal harm teeth?
Activated charcoal may harm teeth due to its abrasive nature. In addition, it can wear down tooth enamel which is needed to protect your teeth against tooth decay. The erosion of tooth enamel can cause your teeth to appear yellow.
Precautions for Using Activated Charcoal for Teeth Whitening
There are several precautions if you are still inclined to try activated charcoal:
- Finessing use
- When activated charcoal is mixed with water, it comes in a powdered form. This form of charcoal is applied to your teeth as a paste. Some people brush their teeth with a toothbrush, while others use their fingers. You are far better off using your finger instead of your toothbrush.
- Charcoal should be used carefully. Because its deep black color can stain clothes, towels, and countertops.
- You may also be increasing the risk of enamel erosion with activated charcoal. An activated charcoal toothpaste with a relative dentin abrasiveness of 250 or less. It is recommended that you alternate fluoride toothpaste with ADA-recommended toothpaste for short periods.
- Other active ingredients
- Make sure to notice other ingredients on the toothpaste label. Some ingredients, such as sorbitol, could cause allergic reactions. Sweeteners can also act as laxatives, so avoid swallowing them
- Kids and pregnant women
- Children, pregnant women, and nursing mothers should avoid it because the ADA or the U.S. FDA does not approve it.
Are there safer alternatives to natural teeth whiteners?
Here are a few alternatives we recommend to help you get a whiter smile:
- Use fluoride toothpaste to keep your teeth white.
- Avoid beverages that can cause teeth staining, such as red wine, tea, and coffee.
- Avoid regular smoking
- Use toothpaste that contains baking soda as a natural whitening agent.
Should You Use Activated Charcoal for Teeth Whitening?
Be sure to schedule regular dental office cleanings for thorough tooth polishing. Having whiter teeth is a result of regular dental office cleanings. With that in mind, charcoal tooth whitening may not be the worst option out there. Even though it isn’t beneficial for your teeth. You should scrub your enamel once a month, according to some dentists, to remove stains.
Activated charcoal is safe to ingest. And fine charcoal toothpaste won’t cause much damage to your teeth. But, there are safer and better ways to improve the look and health of your teeth. In truth, most forms of at-home tooth whitening are in some way dangerous. For instance, bleaching agents can damage your teeth.
Baking soda and charcoal, both abrasive agents, can wear down the enamel on your teeth. This is making them more prone to problems. Professional whitening is safer to go with.
Schedule regular dental office cleanings for thorough tooth polishing and plaque removal. Having whiter teeth is a result of regular dental office cleanings.