Is It Safe to Whiten Your Teeth with Charcoal?

If you spend time online, you have likely seen teeth whitening “hacks.” One includes the use of activated charcoal to achieve a whiter smile. Using this affordable substance in an effort to brighten your smile may sound compelling, but have you ever wondered whether or not it is safe for your teeth? Read on to learn more about the risks associated with activated charcoal and to get some advice on the best way to go about teeth whitening.

Is Charcoal Teeth Whitening Safe?

In recent years, many social media influencers have been advertising this fun new way to whiten your teeth: activated charcoal. However, this isn’t the safest option out there. Here are some risks associated with using charcoal on your teeth.

• Enamel Erosion: Since activated charcoal is so absorbent, it has been used medicinally for quite some time. One of the key points that advertisers emphasize is that it will absorb stains. The abrasiveness of charcoal is also key when it comes to its whitening abilities. However, the American Dental Association warns that non-dentist-approved charcoal powder and toothpaste is too abrasive, which can erode your enamel. This can cause sensitivity and even expose the yellow dentin beneath your enamel over time.
• Tooth Decay: Another issue with charcoal toothpaste is that they often don’t contain fluoride. Fluoride is a natural mineral that provides defense against tooth decay. It helps to strengthen teeth and make them more resistant to cavities. If you are using activated charcoal as opposed to regular toothpaste, you are putting your teeth at risk.
• Damaging Ingredients: According to a study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, many adds for dental products contain charcoal make unsubstantial claims regarding their safety. In fact, approximately a third of these products contain bentonite clay, which has been found to contain lead!

How Can You Safely Whiten Your Teeth?

Fortunately, there is a safe way to achieve a brighter smile. Your dentist can provide you with a professional take-home whitening kit. This includes customized trays and prescription-strength whitening gel. You will need to wear them for a certain amount of time each day until you’ve achieved the ideal results. Usually, this takes just a couple of weeks!

You shouldn’t risk your dental health by using questionable products pitched online. Instead, ask your dentist about safe methods to improve the appearance of your smile. You will be showing off beautiful pearly whites in no time!

About the Practice

At Amherst Dental Group, we have a team of skilled dentists serving patients in the Williamsville community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. To learn more about teeth whitening or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (716) 689-8882.