DR. DIPILLA IS NOW What’s the deal with charcoal teeth whitening?
The latest trend of DIY teeth whitening has been in the form of activated charcoal. Users claim brushing with this black powdery substance for 3 to 5 minutes has noticeably whitened their teeth. The internet trend has been gaining steady popularity. The cosmetic result may hold true for some users, but the safety and long term effects is very questionable. The important thing to consider is the abrasiveness of the charcoal. Long term scrubbing with abrasive products will remove enamel and actually make the teeth appear more yellow. This happens because the underlying layer of softer dentin is naturally yellow and will show through with a reduction in enamel. The severity is very real; because once enamel is lost you can never get it back! In fact, the most recent position by the American Dental Association states there is no evidence that shows dental products with charcoal are safe or effective for your teeth. Instead users should opt for a product that is more predictable with a proven track record of being safe. The bottom line is when it comes to enamel don’t gamble! There are far better options out there that work effectively and are proven safe. The best course of action is to consult with a dentist before beginning any teeth whitening regimen.
