With charcoal toothpaste rising in popularity so quickly, it is important to know if it really is as good as people are saying.
What dentists had to say about this new charcoal toothpaste fad:
- Most of these toothpastes have no fluoride in them, so they lack the best cavity fighting power of others. Fluoride is a very important ingredient to protect your teeth from the build up of sticky plaque.
- Charcoal toothpastes are not American Dental Association (ADA) approved. An ADA approval means that the toothpaste has been tested and meets professional dental standards.
- It can be too abrasive and cause permanent damage to your enamel. Enamel is what protects your teeth, and it does not grow back once it is gone. Without enamel, only dentin is showing, which is much fuller and can actually make your smile appear darker—not white. Eroded enamel will also increase your sensitivity to hot and cold foods, which may cause pain when eating. In addition to causing possible damage to original teeth, charcoal toothpaste can scratch up veneers and crowns as well.
One of the biggest draws of charcoal toothpaste is the supposed whitening power that it has. So what are some things to look for in other tooth whitening products that are safer for your teeth?
There are usually three options when looking for tooth whitening: whitening toothpaste, whitening pens, and whitening trays/strips.
Important things to check for on labels for these products are:
- Hydrogen peroxide, but no more or less than ten percent
- Carbamide peroxide, but no more or less than thirty-five percent
- An official American Dental Association seal of approval
Never be afraid to speak with your dentist about any questions or concerns about new dental care products such as charcoal toothpaste. Remember to keep up with at home dental hygiene, and regular dentist cleaning/checkup appointments.