Activated charcoal has become a prominent trend in oral and dental care, with proponents touting its superior teeth-whitening and bad breath-relieving capabilities compared to standard toothpaste. However, before using activated charcoal for your teeth, it's crucial to understand more about it and discuss its pros and cons with your dentist.
What is Activated Charcoal?
Activated charcoal is a fine black powder created by subjecting natural oxidizing substances, such as wood and coconut shells, to high heat. Common oral care products containing activated charcoal include charcoal powder and toothpaste.
Pros of Activated Charcoal
Charcoal is excellent at binding bacteria, viruses, and stains due to its absorbent properties. Using activated charcoal in daily dental care routines may eliminate toxins, decrease bad breath, and improve oral health. It also has properties that allow the charcoal toothpaste to help remove some stains from the teeth. However, it typically isn't the best choice for teeth whitening.
Cons of Activated Charcoal
Unfortunately, while charcoal removes surface stains, it doesn't whiten teeth beyond the teeth enamel. To make matters worse, excessive use can be abrasive, eroding tooth enamel, leading to additional discoloration and increased sensitivity. After continued use, you might notice that your teeth look more yellow. Why? Because the activated charcoal wears down your enamel, revealing the dentin layer of your teeth.
Another drawback is that charcoal toothpaste often lacks fluoride, a key component in preventing tooth decay and maintaining enamel health. Additionally, charcoal particles may accumulate in tooth cracks or affect dental work like veneers, causing stains.
The long-term effects and safety of charcoal use remain uncertain, emphasizing the need for more research. It's essential for individuals to consult with their dental care providers and explore reliable information before deciding to try charcoal products. To help preserve your dental health, see a skilled and caring dentist to discuss the best dental care and teeth whitening options tailored to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Teeth Whitening
At What Age Can Teeth Whitening Take Place?
In general, it's best to wait until at least the teenage years for teeth whitening. Dentists don't suggest or perform teeth whitening on children or patients who still have baby teeth. Adults are typically the best candidates since their teeth are fully developed and have years of stains.
How Can You Make Teeth Whitening Results Last Longer?
Patients can take several proactive steps to help make their teeth whitening results last longer, such as:
- Brushing after every meal
- Avoiding heavily dyed beverages such as tea, coffee, or wine
- Scheduling regular cleaning appointments with a dental hygienist
- Avoiding dyed mouthwashes
Questions About Teeth Whitening? Howard Levitt DDS Family and Cosmetic Dentistry Has Answers
Howard Levitt DDS is a general and cosmetic dentistry practice serving the dental needs of patients of all ages throughout Brookfield, CT, and surrounding areas. We offer teeth whitening treatments and are happy to discuss their benefits and the process with you.
Please call us today at 203-775-2225 or contact us online to schedule your appointment.