Charcoal Toothpaste is a fad that has popped up over the last few years. It looks cool. Brush your teeth with this charcoal substance and BAM, instant white teeth. So how does it work?

Charcoal toothpaste is a type of toothpaste that contains activated charcoal, a form of carbon that’s treated so that its surface particles are porous. The resulting nooks and crannies perform like powerful magnets, drawing in and absorbing particles that are swept away when the charcoal is rinsed off. In toothpastes, activated charcoal is marketed as binding to things like bacteria, stains, and tartar; as a result, it is touted as being great for whitening the teeth and freshening the breath.

Well, there is no scientific proof that it actually whitens your teeth. As a matter of fact, charcoal is actually a very abrasive substance, and scrubbing your teeth with it can actually scrub the enamel off your teeth. Enamel is the hard outer surface layer that protects your teeth against decay. When your enamel erodes, your teeth can start to get stains and even cause more sensitivity. We don’t recommend this fad.

The best ways to naturally whiten teeth are healthy oral habits, such as brushing your teeth twice a day with an American Dental Association-approved whitening toothpaste, limiting the intake of staining foods like coffee and red wine, and regularly visiting Dr. Nylander.

There are also in-office teeth whitening procedures that safely whiten the enamel without damaging it. There are also bleaching take-home trays available as well. If you are looking to brighten your smile with teeth whitening in Allen, Texas, please visit Allen Dentistry and let Dr. Nylander and his amazing staff whiten your teeth. Schedule an appointment today!