If you have stained or discolored teeth, you may be searching for a fast and efficient way to get a whiter, brighter smile. Activated charcoal toothpaste has been making headlines for its claims to do just that, but does it really live up to the hype? Here’s everything you need to know about this trendy new product.
What is Activated Charcoal?
Activated charcoal is a porous, fine, black powder that is derived from super-heated coal and other natural products. Historically, it has been used in emergency rooms to treat certain types of drug overdoses. Recently, however, it has been found in many toothpastes as an all-natural whitening agent.
How Does It Work?
According to manufacturer claims, activated charcoal is supposed to whiten your teeth because of its abrasive texture. Theoretically, the particles should scrub away stains, leaving behind gleaming white teeth, but unfortunately that’s not quite the end of the story.
The Dangers of Activated Charcoal
While it would be nice if there were truly a natural product that miraculously erased tooth stains while you brushed, this is simply not possible. The danger in activated charcoal toothpaste lies not in the fact that it’s ineffective, but in that it can harm your teeth. That’s because it can easily scratch your enamel, causing permanent damage, and while some may claim that their teeth seem whiter after using it, that can easily be attributed to the difference you’ll notice after the black paste has been removed, and the fact that you did just brush them.
How to Get Real Results
Now that you know what doesn’t work, you may be wondering what does. Thankfully, if you need a fast and effective way to whiten your teeth, your dentist can help! Professional teeth whitening can remove up to eight shades of stains and discoloration in one treatment that takes about an hour. For those who would prefer to do it at home, your dentist offers DIY kits that include custom-fitted trays and activator gel that can provide the same results as in-office whitening over a few weeks. You can even purchase gel refills for occasional touch ups as needed. Professional whitening is safer for your teeth than trendy products like activated charcoal toothpaste, and it yields much more noticeable results.
Remember, while it would be great to whiten your teeth simply by brushing them, there is currently no product that can do this. Thankfully, professional whitening works quickly and effectively and can produce the results you want in as little as one treatment!
About Dr. Ornelas
Dr. Joe Ornelas understands that your smile is the key to your self-esteem, and being confident can help you excel in both your personal and your professional endeavors. That’s why he provides cosmetic dentistry treatments like professional teeth whitening to his patients, right here in Crown Point.
Don’t be fooled by so-called miracle whiteners that don’t work and could even harm your teeth. Schedule a consultation for a professional whitening treatment at Ornelas Family Dentistry by visiting our website or calling us today at 219-663-2892.