Dental News

A Look at the Charcoal Teeth Whitening Trend: Is it Safe?

December 28, 2018

A Look at the Charcoal Teeth Whitening Trend: Is it Safe?

It seems there are new health and beauty trends becoming popular on the internet every day. It can be a challenge to know which ones are great uses of your time and money – and it can be even harder to see what’s safe. At California Dental Group we keep an eye on the changing trends. Lately we have seen many people using charcoal teeth whitening products. You may wonder – are they safe?

Read on to find out the truth about these products. Then remember to call us at (800) 407-0161 if it has been more than a year since your last dental appointment.

Charcoal whitening is not as effective as some people think

First, let us consider if it is an effective option. The reality is that it is not everything the internet claims it is. Remember that activated charcoal isn’t simply the charcoal that you use to grill out – it’s an oxidized substance that’s made from wood, coconut shells, peat, and even petroleum, and then heated with a gas of some type.

Charcoal has adhesive qualities, which allows toxins and surface stains to cling to it. This is why some people believe that it is great at removing stains from teeth. It is true that it can show a fast result but it is also true that this is just an illusion and not a solution.

In the long run, charcoal can make your teeth less white

While activated charcoal may make it look as though stains have disappeared, it is also an abrasive substance that can hurt the enamel on your teeth. That enamel exists specifically to protect your teeth from stains, so removing or damaging it can cause stains to more quickly appear in the future. Remember that enamel cannot be replenished – the damage that’s done to it by activated charcoal is permanent damage.

If you have receding gums or sensitive teeth, you should especially skip charcoal because it can make brushing even more harsh and make sensitivity even worse. In the long-run, using charcoal can totally deplete enamel and expose your dentin. This is the soft, yellowish layer under the enamel. When it is exposed, it increases your chances for stains, cavities, and gum disease.

The American Dental Association has an opinion on charcoal

According to the well-respected American Dental Association, charcoal should not be used to whiten teeth. If you decide to use it anyone, we recommend using it only once in a while. The more you use it, the more it can damage your teeth.

We understand why people want whiter teeth, which is why we offer a range of teeth whitening options that are approved by the ADA and do not damage your teeth. call California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 if you are ready to learn more about options for teeth whitening and other cosmetic dentistry options.

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