Charcoal is one of the blackest things many people can imagine, so it might seem odd that some people are using it to whiten their teeth. Activated charcoal has become the latest detoxifying trend, and today you can find it in consumer products like supplements, shampoo, soap, and facial masks. While you may be able to brighten your teeth somewhat with activated charcoal toothpaste, this may also come with some significant downsides. Here’s why professional teeth whitening treatments from your dentist deliver superior results.
What Is Activated Charcoal?
Activated charcoal is made by oxidizing natural materials like coconut shells, olive pits, wood, and peat under extreme heat, resulting in a highly absorbent and extremely porous fine-grained black powder. It has been used in emergency rooms to treat drug overdoses and other poisonings due to its ability to bind with toxic molecules. Lately, people have attempted to use its detoxifying effects to lift dental stains, remove plaque, and whiten teeth.
The Truth About Charcoal in Teeth Whitening
Despite the recent popularity of activated charcoal as a teeth whitening treatment, there is no scientific evidence supporting its safety or purported benefits. Because of this lack of data, products containing this substance cannot receive the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance, and the ADA holds that the abrasive texture of activated charcoal may even harm teeth by eroding enamel.
Why Professional Teeth Whitening Is Best
If you’re looking for a way to whiten your teeth quickly, safely, and effectively, look no further than your local cosmetic dentist’s office. Professional teeth whitening treatments come in the form of take-home kits that include a tube of concentrated whitening gel and a set of customized dental trays. To whiten your teeth over two weeks, you’ll only need to apply the gel to the trays and wear them for about an hour every day, or, if you prefer to do things faster, you can choose a version that you wear for three nights during sleep. In either case, your teeth will be up to six shades brighter.
Almost everyone wishes they had a whiter smile, but using the wrong method to brighten your teeth can lead to lackluster results or even serious oral health problems. Professional teeth whitening treatments from your dentist can safely and reliably deliver a shiny white smile that you’ll love to show off.
About the Practice
Painesville Dental Group offers the finest oral health services available. Led by Drs. Dennis Horvath, Jerry V. Patriarca, Nicholas Slezak, and Stephanie Pichler, the staff ensures that each patient receives exemplary care in a comfortable and friendly environment. The practice provides general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as teeth whitening services. To schedule your teeth whitening consultation, contact the office online or dial (440) 354-2183.