Does Brushing Your Teeth With Charcoal Make Them Whiter
Charcoal toothpaste, charcoal powder, and charcoal-infused bristles have taken the dental hygiene market by storm. The trend of brushing your teeth with activated charcoal has been around for quite some time now, and people are wondering if it's just a fad or if it actually works. Many people claim that brushing with charcoal can make your teeth whiter, but is this true? In this article, we'll explore the science behind brushing your teeth with charcoal and whether it can actually make them whiter or not.
What is Activated Charcoal?
Activated charcoal is a fine black powder made from coconut shells, peat, petroleum coke, coal, olive pits or sawdust. It is activated by processing it at very high temperatures, which changes its internal structure, reducing the size of its pores and increasing its surface area. This makes it more porous than regular charcoal and gives it the ability to absorb impurities and toxins.
How Does Charcoal Whiten Teeth?
Charcoal is not a bleaching agent, so it doesn't actually whiten your teeth in the way that traditional teeth whitening products do. Instead, it removes surface stains on your teeth caused by things like coffee, tea, wine, and tobacco. The activated charcoal's porous surface binds with rough parts on teeth, usually surface stains and plaque, making it easier to remove the yellowing substances. This is why it's known as a natural whitener.
What Are the Risks of Brushing Your Teeth With Charcoal?
While there are some benefits to using activated charcoal for teeth whitening, there are also some risks involved. One of the biggest risks is that charcoal is abrasive and can damage your tooth enamel. Brushing your teeth with charcoal too often can wear away your enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to decay and sensitivity. Additionally, charcoal can be messy and stain your clothes and sink.
What Are Some Alternatives to Charcoal for Teeth Whitening?
If you're looking for an alternative to charcoal for teeth whitening, there are several options available to you. One of the most popular alternatives is hydrogen peroxide, which is a bleaching agent that can help whiten your teeth. You can use hydrogen peroxide by itself or in combination with baking soda to make a paste. Other natural alternatives include oil pulling with coconut oil, brushing with baking soda, and using whitening toothpaste.
Conclusion
Brushing your teeth with charcoal can help remove surface stains and make your teeth appear whiter. However, it's important to remember that charcoal is abrasive and can damage your enamel if used too often. There are also alternatives to charcoal for teeth whitening that may be safer and more effective. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide if brushing with charcoal is right for you and your dental hygiene routine.
