Many people wanting bright white smiles are turned off by the idea of applying chemicals like bleach to their teeth. If you’re researching more organic alternatives to lift the shade of your grin, you might come across home remedies featuring activated charcoal. Multiple sources claim it provides teeth-whitening benefits, but many patients still have questions. For example, you might want to know how effective it is and whether it’s considered safe.
Continue reading to learn more about it and why you might want to whiten your teeth with your dentist instead!
What is Activated Charcoal?
You might be surprised to learn that charcoal can potentially enhance your appearance, but this is a different material than what you put on the grill. The bricks you put on fire to barbecue emit carbon dioxide when heated and can harm your health.
Meanwhile, activated charcoal is a fine-grained black powder made from naturally occurring substances like coconut shells, olive pits, slowly burned wood, and peat. During its production, it’s exposed to a special gas that causes it to develop large pores. It’s more absorbent as a result and can be used to soak up a variety of things.
Does Activated Charcoal Whiten Teeth?
It’s believed that applying this material to your teeth can remove surface stains because it binds to plaque and surface stains, absorbs discoloration, and then can be brushed or rinsed away. However, scientific researchers have not found evidence to support these claims, so products with activated charcoal are not yet eligible for the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance.
Is Activated Charcoal Safe?
There are certain risks to applying this powdery substance to your teeth, such as:
- Surface abrasion. This gritty material can score microscopic gouges into the surface of your teeth, roughening up your enamel. Unhealthy bacteria are more likely to cling to the surface as a result, increasing the likelihood of tooth decay and gum disease.
- Thinning enamel. These products can wear down your enamel, eventually leaving your teeth looking more yellow than white because the lower layers are naturally darker and can shine through.
While there may be some truth behind the theory that activated charcoal can brighten your smile, so far, scientists haven’t been able to prove it.
Meanwhile, your dentist can provide multiple options that are proven to achieve the desired results. They have access to professional-grade gels and custom-fitted trays designed to maximize the outcome while minimizing potential issues or discomfort.
If you’re frustrated by stubborn dental stains, the best next step is to call your provider!
About the Author
Dr. Carol Morgan has 25+ years of experience helping people build happy, healthy smiles meant to last. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Medical College of Virginia School of Dentistry, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude. Now, she’s an active member of the Academy of General Dentistry and other prestigious organizations, so you can trust your grin is in good hands. She delivers a full range of services, including cosmetics, using state-of-the-art equipment to increase patient comfort and boost the accuracy of treatment results. If you’d like to whiten your teeth, you can request a consultation on the website or call (757) 412-1400.