Activated charcoal oral health products are all the rage – ranging from kinds of toothpaste, powders and even toothbrushes with activated charcoal bristles.

Activated charcoal has gained popularity as a teeth-whitening agent, endorsed even by large dental companies.

But is it the real deal?

Enlighten's CEO and dentist, Sanjay Patel, sheds light on activated charcoal considering its uses, potential benefits and risks to evaluate whether it’s worth investing time in it.

How does activated charcoal work?

It’s said that the idea behind activated charcoal lies in its molecular makeup. Charcoal is a highly porous carbon — it’s these microscopic pores in the charcoal molecules that help to trap impurities that cause stains and remove them.

To “activate charcoal”, you simply heat it to an extremely high temperature — this gives charcoal its porous effect.

They supposedly bind to tannins and other staining molecules on the teeth which helps their removal. The mildly abrasive texture of the charcoal also helps to remove stubborn stains over time.

Although some people may have seen improvements using activated charcoal powder or toothpaste, there is little to no evidence to back up its efficacy — so it should be exercised with caution if you want to try it.

The dangers of activated charcoal

No dental professional worth their salt will ever recommend activated charcoal treatments.

With no evidence to back up claims of cleaner, whiter teeth, there is mounting evidence to suggest that it could do more harm than good.

Here is a list of the problems associated with using dental health products that contain activated charcoal.

Abrasive on Enamel

The texture of activated charcoal is usually too abrasive, and overuse can lead to enamel erosion over time. With excessive use, activated charcoal may cause increased sensitivity and long-term dental damage.

Does Not Remove Deep Stains

Any positive results that are found are typically limited to the enamel surface. It cannot address intrinsic stains or yellowing caused by underlying issues like enamel thinning.

In some cases, using activated charcoal may have the exact opposite effect. Activated charcoal can get into crevices in the enamel and make your teeth appear darker.

Limited Scientific Evidence

There is minimal robust scientific research proving its efficacy and safety as a teeth-whitening agent. Almost all claims around the efficacy of activated charcoal whitening are anecdotal or simply a marketing ploy.

Potential Messiness

Powdered activated charcoal is very messy. Charcoal can often stain sinks and counters while also being almost impossible to get out of clothes and fabric materials.

Potential Risks to Dental Health

Overuse can damage enamel, making teeth more susceptible to decay. Some dentists caution against its frequent use due to potential harm.

May Interact with Medications (If Ingested)

When swallowed in significant amounts, activated charcoal can interfere with medication absorption in the digestive system. While rare in dental use, it is possible for charcoal to affect how a medication affects the body.

If you are using prescription medication, consult with your doctor before continuing use.

Alternative whitening solutions

Whether it’s looking after your dental health or trying to achieve the whiter teeth you deserve, there is no one product alone that does that.

What you need is a regular cleaning routine and at-home and professional treatments to get long-lasting results.

To get whiter teeth and a healthier mouth, consider:

Getting on top of your oral care routine — Combine brushing with flossing to remove plaque and food particles between teeth. Use floss or water flossers, and finish with a fluoride mouthwash.

Eating a tooth-friendly diet — A tooth-friendly diet with calcium, vitamin C, potassium, and phosphorus strengthens enamel and gums. Include foods like dairy, leafy greens, and protein-rich options, while limiting stain-causing drinks like coffee and red wine. Stay hydrated with water to wash away bacteria and maintain oral health.

Scheduling regular professional cleans — Visit your dentist or hygienist every six months for professional cleanings to remove tartar and deep clean hard-to-reach areas. Regular visits can help prevent gum disease and maintain stronger, whiter teeth.

For a more detailed breakdown of how to keep your mouth healthy and your teeth sparkling, check our helpful guide!

Need teeth-whitening? Try Enlighten

When you’re looking for a whitening solution that offers clinically-backed and long-lasting results your one-stop-shop should always be Enlighten.

Our whitening toothpaste is clinically proven to help maintain a brighter smile in your home.

Enlighten also offers a professional whitening treatment offered by dentists across the country. Interested? Find a dentist with ease, book and get started today.

For more information about how our minimally non-invasive teeth whitening system can help you get the smile you’re looking for, see our step-by-step breakdown, so you know exactly what to expect before you book.

FAQs

1. Does activated charcoal work?

Although some people see some improvement in using activated charcoal products, there’s no scientific evidence to suggest that it works.

There are, however, proven downsides attributed to the overuse of charcoal products. If you’re looking for whitening products that make a difference, consult your dentist or hygienist for affordable, proven treatments that yield long-term results.

2. Is activated charcoal safe?

Using activated charcoal products in moderation typically causes lasting damage. We do not recommend using charcoal at all. It’s important to limit your use or switch to approved products to avoid affecting your dental health.

3. Should I use activated charcoal toothpaste?

In short, no.

There are many more products and treatments available that are proven and safe, whereas the efficacy of activated charcoal is yet to be proven and can potentially damage your teeth.

› DIG DEEPER ‹

Learn more about the Enlighten Teeth Whitening System HERE.

And to find an Enlighten whitening expert near you, hit the link below. 

FIND A DENTIST

Or if it’s mini smile makeovers you want to dig deeper into, then give it a click right HERE.

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