Charcoal Toothpaste Debate: Whitens Teeth or Destroys Them?

One of the hottest trends in the dental world includes brushing teeth with charcoal. Many claim it actually removes stains and whitens teeth. However, others insist it damages enamel and can destroy teeth forever. This charcoal toothpaste debate pits the American Dental Association, or ADA, against consumers who crave a whiter, brighter smile.

charcoal toothpasteCharcoal Toothpaste Debate: A New Teeth Whitening Sensation?

People have used charcoal on their teeth dating back to ancient Roman times. But recently it became the hottest trend in the dental world. Thousands rushed to use the relatively cheap product to get that whiter, brighter smile. They hoped to improve their job prospects, love lives and oral hygiene. Proponents claimed brushing with what looks like black goop effectively removes stains and whitens teeth.

But not so fast, says the American Dental Association. The ADA calls charcoal abrasive. The black toothpaste strips the protective coat of enamel off of teeth. Because the human body does not regenerate enamel, once it disappears, it disappears forever. All your teeth have left is a layer known as dentin, which looks yellowish, not a dazzling white.

ADA Approved Whiteners

If you want a whiter smile, a few toothpastes have earned the ADA Seal of Acceptance to help you whiten your teeth. These contain a professionally recommended whitening ingredient — hydrogen peroxide. The products boast about 10 percent carbamide peroxide.

Commonly ADA recommended products: Crest 3D White Luxe Glamorous White Vibrant Whitening Toothpaste, Opalescence Whitening Toothpaste, Tom’s of Maine Antiplaque and Whitening Flouride-Free Toothpaste, Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening Toothpaste, and Colgate Optic White Toothpaste.

Top Charcoal Toothpastes

Despite the charcoal toothpaste debate being waged by the dental organization, independent researchers have ranked charcoal toothpaste products.

The consensus top pick: Twin Lotus Active Charcoal Toothpaste. This non-abrasive black toothpaste features a triple-action formula that kills bad breath and bacteria and whitens teeth in about 10 days. An herbal extract in this Thailand product leaves a refreshing minty taste.

Another top-of-the-line option: Terra Brilliant Black Toothpaste Kit. Billed as a “safe alternative,” it remains free of toxic chemicals. It contains activated charcoal, organic extra virgin coconut oil, tea tree oil and baking soda. A specially designed toothbrush made out of bamboo with nylon bristles comes with the product. It combines with the toothpaste to combat bacteria and plaque. Whitening becomes visible within the first or second use. Reviews indicate the taste ranges from “fresh” to “insect repellant.”

Additionally, the No. 1 household brand in the toothpaste industry sells its own charcoal toothpaste. Colgate Charcoal has a unique blend of micro-charcoal particles. While it freshens your mouth and fights cavities, the jury remains out on how much whitening occurs.

Or you can schedule a teeth-whitening session with us!  We have several proven and effective products to give you that traffic stopping smile you want!

Include Orange Beach Family Dentistry in Your Teeth Whitening Routine!

Whether you decide to join the growing trend and use charcoal toothpaste or not, any teeth whitening regimen should also include the friendly, expert staff at Orange Beach Family Dentistry. Regular cleanings in addition to daily flossing and twice-daily brushing will lead to healthy oral hygiene. Call us to set up an appointment today for any of your dental needs!