An interest in natural remedies has been around for decades, with enthusiasm waxing and waning with the social climate. Throughout this, more environmentally and natural health-friendly options for routine care and hygiene have been showing up on the market. The dental industry has not been left out of these innovations. A wide variety of products have found their way onto the shelves and into the hands of consumers. As is typical with this style of product, many of them have not received the seal of approval from the ADA. This includes many brands of charcoal-based toothpaste. This has left many wondering about their safety and efficacy.
So Is Charcoal Based Toothpaste Safe?
When it comes to safety of use, you can rest easy in knowing that current research indicates that the product itself is perfectly safe to use. Caution is still suggested as long-term research is still underway, and the results have not had time to reveal themselves. While safe to use from a health standpoint, there are a few things to keep in mind when using this dental care product.
- Charcoal Is Abrasive – More abrasive than your typical toothpaste. As a result, it isn’t appropriate for everyday use. Attempting to use it as a normal toothpaste can result in the thinning of your enamel. It can even make your teeth look more yellow as dentin is exposed.
- Charcoal Brands Usually Lack Fluoride – Brands of toothpaste that have charcoal in them typically eschew the addition of fluoride. Fluoride is essential in strengthening your enamel and preventing cavities and decay. Combined with the abrasive nature of charcoal, this can sometimes lead to higher rates of tooth decay.
- Some Teeth Stain With Charcoal – Charcoal is a particulate and can work its way into the nooks and crannies of older teeth. This may result in your teeth become more stained over time.
Is Charcoal Safe For Whitening?
Charcoal is a double-edged sword for whitening. As mentioned above, long-term use on older teeth has actually shown evidence of being a cause of staining. That being said, it has been shown to be effective at removing surface staining for some patients. This is a result of the abrasive nature of charcoal, and as a result, should be used sparingly for this purpose. In general, it’s safer to go with more traditional over-the-counter whiteners or professional treatments from your dentist.
If you’re exploring natural options for your dental hygiene, it pays to consult with your dental practitioner about it. The experts at Lerner & Lemongello are available to provide guidance on topics like these and deliver a full suite of cosmetic, restorative, and preventative dental treatments. We’re proud to be an important part of the Palm Beach Gardens, FL dental community, and are always welcoming new patients. Before you start exploring alternative options for caring for your dental hygiene, be sure to schedule a consultation with Dr. Lerner or Dr. Lemongello. We are excited to meet you and welcome you to the Lerner & Lemongello patient family!