Charcoal toothpaste is a trendy ingredient in commercial face masks and scrubs, and some people also swear by it for whitening their teeth. However, the benefits and drawbacks of using charcoal toothpaste are still unclear, and more research is needed on its long-term effects. Here are some of the benefits and risks of using charcoal toothpaste:
Benefits:
- Charcoal toothpaste can remove some surface stains on your teeth.
- It can reduce an acidic pH in your mouth and improve bad breath by absorbing excess plaque.
Risks:
- Charcoal toothpaste is too abrasive for everyday use and can wear down your enamel, making your teeth look more yellow by exposing the dentin, a calcified yellow tissue.
- Most charcoal toothpaste brands do not contain fluoride, which is important for preventing tooth decay.
- Studies havent shown that it improves your dental health, so you may not actually gain any benefits from using activated charcoal on your teeth.
Ingredients or materials:
- Activated charcoal is made by burning certain high-carbon materials and then heating them in incredibly high heat to activate it.
- Charcoal toothpaste products available online and in most drugstores today contain activated charcoal, which is a fine-grain powder made from wood, coconut shells, and other natural substances that are oxidized under extreme heat.
In conclusion, while charcoal toothpaste can remove some surface stains on your teeth, it doesnt whiten teeth better than regular toothpaste, and its long-term effects are unclear. It is also too abrasive for everyday use and can wear down your enamel, making your teeth more yellow and sensitive. Therefore, it is important to be cautious when using charcoal-based toothpaste and to consult with your dentist before using it regularly.