Does charcoal whiten teeth? Using charcoal for teeth whitening can be an effective home remedy. It can help to remove the plaque from the teeth.
Moreover, it has an abrasive texture that can help to rub off the bacterial build-up on your teeth. Using activated charcoal for teeth whitening can be particularly useful. Activated charcoal is made from coconut shells, olive pits, and sawdust, etc.
The charcoal has a negative electrical charge in it. When it comes into contact with positively charged toxin molecules, it attracts them. This helps pull the toxins from your teeth.
Bizarre Facts
- Hydrogen peroxide is present in abundance in teeth bleaching products
- Did you know that charcoal is being used as a water purifier since 400 B.C.
Moreover, charcoal also eliminates free radicals that may damage and turn your teeth yellowish. Activated charcoal is highly absorbent of other harmful chemical compounds in the mouth. Charcoal can remove stains from deep-colored foods like tea or coffee(1).
How to Use Activated Charcoal for Teeth Whitening?
There are multiple ways to use activated charcoal for teeth whitening. You may use activated charcoal for brushing your teeth. The following method is recommended.
- You need two toothbrushes. The first toothbrush shall be used to apply the charcoal. The second toothbrush shall be used after brushing. You may also need a cup of warm water for rinsing.
- Dip a clean wet toothbrush in the container of powdered charcoal. If powdered charcoal is not available, you may use charcoal capsule.
- Place toothbrush covered with charcoal quickly in your mouth.
- Brush your teeth. It is preferable to brush in circular motions. Pushing hard against the teeth can lead to corrosion of tooth enamel.
- Let the charcoal sit in the teeth for almost two minutes. Try not to swallow it.
- Spit out the charcoal and rinse your mouth thoroughly. You may use warm water for this purpose to rinse out thoroughly.
- Now wet the second toothbrush. You may apply your regular toothpaste. Brush lightly and thoroughly to remove any remaining charcoal from your teeth.
- Make sure you use this remedy no more than twice a week. Regular usage may result in corrosion of teeth enamel.
[Also Read: 8 Simple Foods That Whiten Teeth]
However, there are multiple issues related to the use of charcoal for teeth whitening. Activated charcoal(2) products are not approved for teeth whitening by the U.S Food and Drug Administration.
Moreover, the use of these products is strictly forbidden for children. Women who are pregnant are required to avoid using this product.
Similarly, sorbitol, an artificial sweetener in charcoal, can result in allergies. At the same time, if it is swallowed, it can have a severe laxative effect.
[Also Read: Coconut Oil for Teeth Whitening]
Things to Keep in Mind
At the same time, activated charcoal can have a high abrasiveness. If it reaches levels of more than 250, it can become dangerous to your teeth. Your tooth enamel could get eroded by the regular use of activated charcoal. It is used along charcoal + fluoride toothpaste to ensure that the teeth remain healthy.
At the same time, using charcoal can be difficult for teeth whitening. It may be quite challenging to remove it entirely from the teeth.
Usually, better effects of teeth whitening can only be noticed in people who smoke or consume tea/coffee. Moreover, there is no research to support that charcoal, actually whitens teeth(3).
It is highly recommended that you check with your dentist to choose the right kind of charcoal product. This may include your oral health. Your dentist may advise you not to use charcoal if you have oral disease, mouth infection, or wound inside the mouth. You may also confirm the recommended dosage from your dentist.
[Also Read: Turmeric For Teeth Whitening]
Charcoal may be useful in whitening your teeth, depending on your situation. It can provide a powerful remedy to those who have perfect oral health and use the medication correctly and in recommended amounts.
However, overuse and unregulated use may result in damages to your teeth and overall health. Thus, if your dentist advises you to use charcoal, it can be an excellent choice for teeth whitening.
FAQs
1. Is Activated Charcoal Safe for Teeth Whitening?
Activated charcoal can be extremely safe for teeth whitening if used within the recommended amounts. However, you must confirm from your dentist if it is safe for your specific health condition.
2. How Effective Is Charcoal in Whitening Teeth?
Charcoal can be invariably effective in whitening teeth depending on the condition of your mouth, and how you use it.
3. How Often Should I Use Charcoal for Teeth Whitening?
It is recommended that you use charcoal no more than twice a week as it can cause enamel erosion. Your dentist may confirm the exact usage. Usage may be changed if you experience adverse effects.
