Is Charcoal Toothpaste Safe?

Charcoal toothpaste has been rising in popularity through recent years. I have been asked by many patients about its efficacy and safety. After some research this is what I have concluded:

1. Charcoal toothpaste is natural, so it must be safe, right?

• Charcoal is a natural substance and is often marketed as natural and safe. However, the safety of charcoal on enamel is dependent on usage. Charcoal is abrasive and long-term effects of abrasiveness on enamel can lead to erosion and sensitivity. Charcoal toothpaste should not be used daily.

• Each toothpaste brand includes different ingredients. Some will have fluoride while others will not. Fluoride is another natural occurring mineral with the properties to reinforce enamel. Before using charcoal toothpaste, it is recommended to read the ingredients, or consult with your dentist if this method of whitening is right for you.

2. Charcoal toothpaste removes stains, but what type of stains?

• Activated charcoal toothpaste can help remove surface staining that is typically caused by: coffee, tea, wine, or any other dark foods. However, not all staining is on the surface. Some stains have developed due to natural aging or from medication taken in early years. If you are unsure if charcoal toothpaste is for you, I highly recommend reaching out to your dental care provider for more guidance.

3. Charcoal toothpaste will make your teeth whiter after 1 use: too good to be true?

• Charcoal toothpaste can help remove superficial staining, but it’s not a quick fix. The effects vary from each individual and can take weeks or months before noticing any visible improvements. There are no quick fixes to teeth whitening without seeing a dentist for in house whitening treatments.

In Conclusion:

Charcoal toothpaste contains rough particles that aid in superficial stain removal, however there are other, and maybe even safer methods of teeth whitening out there. It is highly recommended to seek dentist advise for teeth whitening so you may find a product that works well for the goals you have in mind.

For more information about charcoal toothpaste click here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36183933/