Your Cosmetic Dentist Reveals the Truth About Charcoal Teeth Whitening Products

The last few times you’ve been to the store, you’ve noticed countless displays of products boasting that they’re the new best way to get whiter teeth, faster. When you walked up to read the packaging, you noticed its main ingredient was activated charcoal! Charcoal teeth whitening products have been highly popularized by bloggers over the last few months. Everyone wants a whiter smile, but at what cost? Read on to learn about what your cosmetic dentist says about the new activated charcoal teeth whitening trend.

What Is Activated Charcoal?

Activated charcoal is a fine-grained powder made of a combination of natural products like coconut shells, olive pits, burned wood, and peat. Once it’s oxidized due to extreme heat it becomes activated, making it porous and absorbent. Because of this, it can easily trap toxins and odors. But before you start brushing with it, learn how it’s going to affect your oral health and whether it works.

 Are Charcoal Teeth Whitening Products Safe?

You’ll notice when you’re looking at different brands of toothpaste in the oral hygiene aisle at the store, most of them have an ADA seal of approval on the packaging. Activated charcoal products typically don’t have this because it’s known to be an abrasive material that can wear down your tooth enamel.

The American Dental Association has not put their stamp on this product because there hasn’t been enough research to prove whether this new whitening method is safe or effective for your teeth. There are plenty of whitening products approved by the ADA that can not only brighten your smile but also keep it healthy.

Taking good care of your oral health is vital, but the appealing look of a whitened smile is just as important to some people. By using products that are proven safe and effective, you can have both healthy and bright grin!

Are There Better Teeth Whitening Options?

Visiting your dentist for a professional teeth whitening treatment can be the best way to get the results you want, quickly. Your smile naturally becomes discolored over time due to factors such as aging and consuming stain-causing foods and drinks. You can get a refreshed smile in time for any special occasion by visiting your dentist for either an in-office treatment or a custom take-home whitening kit.

In-office Zoom! Teeth Whitening simply involves your dentist applying a bleaching gel and LED light to your teeth. The initial treatment will take 15 short minutes, and your dentist can reapply until your smile reaches your desired brightness. If you would like to have similar results in the comfort of your own home, you can choose the take-home whitening option instead. You’ll receive a custom-fitted set of trays and a bleaching solution to apply whenever you have time.

Instead of relying on products that aren’t proven to be safe for your smile, get ones that are! There are plenty of ADA-approved teeth whitening options that won’t impact your enamel. If you’d like professional results with a cost-effective and quick treatment, visit your dentist! A bright smile is important, just be sure to not jeopardize your oral health in the process of getting it!

About the Author

Dr. Bita Kamali has been giving her patients healthy brightened smiles since 2000. She keeps up with the latest advancements in her field so she can incorporate the latest treatments and procedures in her family practice. She looks forward to providing her patients with a boost of confidence by whitening their smiles. For any questions or to schedule an appointment for teeth whitening, visit Parkway Vista Dental’s website or contact 972-818-1300.