Charcoal Toothpaste
If you’ve been on the internet lately you've probably seen an ad featuring a smile blackened by charcoal toothpaste with claims that it can do everything from whiten teeth to detoxify the mouth. These toothpastes are part of a growing charcoal trend, which has seen activated charcoal (not the stuff from your backyard barbecue) added to everything from nutritional supplements to face masks. But does it live up to the hype? Keep reading to learn about charcoal toothpaste.
What is it?
Activated charcoal is a superfine powder produced by heating carbon rich materials, such as wood or coconut shells, at very high temperatures. The superheating results in a highly porous material that easily binds to a wide variety of substances. In other words...extreme heat activates charcoal by creating tiny pockets that attract and hold on to particles. This "magnetic" property has made activated charcoal effective in water filtration and even in the emergency room where it is used to treat patients in cases of acute poisoning or overdose.
Is it safe to brush with charcoal toothpaste?
A 2017 review article published in the Journal of the American Dental Association found insufficient evidence "to substantiate the safety and efficacy claims of charcoal and charcoal-based dentifrices" and advises dentists to educate patients who may be interested in using the products. Here are some things to consider before hopping on the trend:
Activated charcoal is abrasive. Though superfine, the charcoal powder is still coarse enough to damage teeth when used frequently or improperly.
Unknown effect on existing restorations. Not enough research has been done to know what long-term effects charcoal toothpaste could have on existing fillings or crowns.
Does not contain fluoride. Daily use of a fluoride-containing toothpaste is important for strengthening teeth and preventing cavities. Unfortunately, many charcoal toothpastes do not include fluoride. Using it in place of your regular toothpaste could put you at greater risk for developing cavities.
Can it whiten teeth?
Maybe.
The abrasive quality of charcoal toothpaste will polish the tooth’s surface which can help remove surface stains, giving the teeth a whiter appearance.
BUT…if you brush too hard, too long, or too often with charcoal toothpaste, you could actually make your teeth look yellower. Regular brushing with an abrasive toothpaste can thin the outer white enamel layer and allow more of the inner yellow dentin layer to become visible. Additionally, cracks, crevices, and even restoration margins can collect charcoal particles, resulting in gray or black stains.
A 2019 study comparing effectiveness of whitening toothpastes found only a limited result with charcoal toothpastes.
Dental Detox?
Activated charcoal binds to odor-causing plaque and bacteria, allowing you to rinse them down the drain. But the result is not better than you’d get with any other toothpaste. The previously mentioned 2017 review article “failed to identify scientific support in the literature that topical application of charcoal can provide any detoxification benefits to the teeth or oral mucosa”.
Bottom line.
If you’re interested in trying out charcoal toothpaste, here’s how to do so safely:
Charcoal toothpaste is not a replacement for your everyday fluoridated toothpaste. It should only be used once every other week to reduce surface staining. This is especially effective after a professional cleaning or whitening appointment.
Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush and light pressure when brushing.
Stop using it immediately if you have any sensitivity.
It’s not for everyone. Patient’s with certain conditions, such as gum recession, exposed root surfaces, and decalcification are more susceptible to the abrasive effects of charcoal toothpaste. Using the toothpaste could lead to increased tooth wear and sensitivity.
If you have any questions about whether it’s right for you – ask me at your next appointment.