Every few years a new dental care fad pops up and we dentists and hygienists start hearing tons of questions about whether the latest dental home remedy or DIY tooth care product really works. One of the most popular ones we’ve seen lately is using activated charcoal paste to whiten teeth. Some video bloggers are claiming amazing teeth whitening effects, but many patients are wondering whether this technique really works, and more importantly, whether it is safe.
The quick answer to both questions is: we don’t know yet. Viable studies have not been completed yet on whether charcoal can remove stains from teeth or whether charcoal can damage teeth.
In case you aren’t familiar with it, charcoal teeth whitening involves adding water to a fine powder of charcoal to make a paste. You then use this paste to brush your teeth with a regular toothbrush for three to five minutes. Supposedly, after you rinse the ghoulish-looking black paste from your mouth, you’re left with an ultra-white, megawatt smile.
The idea behind the trend is reasonable enough. Charcoal has been used for centuries as a purifying agent. Activated charcoal is very porous, and all the tiny little holes on its surface grab on to toxins and particles. That’s why charcoal is used in water filters and by as poison control in emergency rooms. However, whether this purifying effect works on teeth is not known, though in theory the concept does make sense.
Regardless of whether charcoal can be effective for teeth whitening, the more important question is if it is safe. It is possible that charcoal is too abrasive for your teeth, meaning that if the charcoal is too rough, it can damage and strip away the outer layer of your teeth (the enamel). This may not cause a problem after just one use, however, if a patient uses charcoal on their teeth repeatedly over time, they may wear out their teeth, leaving them vulnerable to sensitivity and decay.
Given that we don’t really have any evidence or studies to prove either the effectiveness or safety of charcoal teeth whitening, we can’t say that we recommend it. There are plenty of reasonably priced tooth whitening products at the drugstore that are known to be effective and safe that we’d rather patients use. And remember, the best person to ask for advice about whitening your smile is your dentist, your smile-care professional!
Appointments 8am–8pm & on Saturdays!
Book Online or Call Today!
Reshape & Whiten Your Smile With Veneers
Fix discolored, chipped or crooked teeth quickly & easily with natural-looking veneers.
Relief From Snoring & Sleep Apnea!
Do you snore? Have you been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea? Do you have trouble sleeping with a CPAP machine? The American Academy of Sleep Medicine has approved oral appliances that could help you with your Sleep Apnea.
Same Day Crowns!
When it comes to taking impressions of your teeth, CEREC is a clear winner. Our system eliminates the hassle involved with traditional goop-based impressions by using specialized cameras to create a 3-D digital model.
Ready to Schedule Your Appointment?
At Stratford Dental, we have convenient hours that won’t make you miss work or school.
Address & Phone
Bloomingdale, IL 60108
630-980-3880
[email protected]
Si usted necesita ayuda en Espanol por favor pregunte por Jorge.
Staff on site fluent in sign language for the hearing impaired.
Hours
- Tuesday: 2pm-8pm
- Wednesday: 2pm-8pm
- Thursday: 2pm-8pm
- Friday: 8am-2pm
- Saturday: 8am-2pm
About Us
In addition to our advanced technologies & innovative techniques, we’ve revolutionized dentistry to be truly personalized & convenient. No more 9–5! We have hours that fit your busy schedule, including evenings & weekends. Plus, we take the time to listen & clearly explain everything you need to know about your care.
For After Hour Emergencies
Please Call Dr. Brian Evans