If you’ve been on social media recently, you’re probably at least vaguely familiar with the concept of charcoal whitening. You have likely seen a photo of someone brushing their teeth with black toothpaste, claiming that it makes their smile brighter. How does that work? Let’s take a closer look at whether charcoal whitening actually works, or if you should just leave teeth whitening in Beverly to the professionals.
What Is Charcoal Toothpaste?
Charcoal toothpaste contains a special kind of charcoal that’s different from what you might find on the grill. Known as “activated” charcoal, it is exposed to a special gas that makes it very porous. These extra holes in the charcoal allow it to soak up many different substances, including, some believe, surface stains on your teeth.
Can Charcoal Actually Whiten Your Teeth?
No studies have found a direct correlation between using charcoal and having whiter teeth. In order to prove a relationship between the two, more research needs to be done on the subject.
Proponents of activated charcoal whitening claim that the chemical absorbs stains deep within the teeth. However, the research that has been done suggests that charcoal simply scrubs the outside of the tooth enamel and does not penetrate it to remove deeper discoloration. One theory states that people who use charcoal toothpaste brush more often, giving them slightly whiter teeth. However, charcoal whitening does not offer nearly the same benefits as professional whitening treatment from your dentist.
Why Should You Seek Professional Teeth Whitening Instead?
Your dentist can use professional-grade whitening treatment to give you a much brighter smile than if you used charcoal or any over-the-counter whitening kit. You will get impressions made of your teeth to create customized trays which you will wear with a powerful bleaching gel that is much more potent than any chemical you will find elsewhere. Here are some other benefits of professional teeth whitening:
- Less sensitivity
- More cost-effective when considering a smile makeover
- Won’t damage your teeth
- Provides much faster and longer-lasting results
- Safe and effective way to brighten your smile several shades
Although charcoal whitening may work a little, it doesn’t provide nearly as effective results as getting your teeth whitening professionally with your dentist.
About the Author
Dr. Robert Blake has been serving the community of Beverly Farms since 1986. Throughout the course of his career, he has completed more than 1500 continuing education hours to better himself and provide the best possible care to his patients. His practice offers at-home whitening treatment with custom trays to provide the best, longest-lasting results. To get started on your smile makeover, contact Dr. Blake on his website or by calling (978)-927-3515.