Does brushing your teeth with activated charcoal work?

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One of the more popular alternative methods of teeth whitening in recent years is brushing using activated charcoal. It is an ingredient being bannered in various dental products lately. But is it really effective?

Most dentists worldwide are still divided on its effectiveness. Some say that it depends on finding the right product, while others outright insist that activated charcoal is not good for your dental hygiene. It this sense, and assuming you really want to try it out, the best recourse is to ask your dentist to distinguish which toothpaste and whitening products that have it really work.

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Even the American Dental Association (ADA) is cautioning the public that excessive formulations can damage the teeth’s enamel, which will eventually lead to tooth decay. It’s important then to note that products using activated charcoal must pass the abrasiveness test protocol called Relative Dentin Abrasivity (RDA).

In the first place, buying DIY teeth-whitening products is not recommended. The effects may be quick and the application easy, but, again, the long-term damage to your teeth should be kept in mind. Also, remember that at the moment, not one charcoal product is being recommended by the ADA.

In short, there simply isn’t enough and conclusive research available to provide sufficient evidence of the effectiveness and safety of using activated charcoal.

Dr. Kami Hossis a sought-after author, consultant, inventor, and speaker in the fields of dentistry and business. Dr. Hoss has written articles in numerous professional and community journals and publications and has appeared on various TV segments to discuss topics related to dentistry. For similar reads, visit this blog.