Charcoal Toothpaste Does Not Whiten Teeth And Can Be Harmful, According To New Study

Jun 17, 2019 by apost team

Wellness trends are nothing new. Celebrities and influencers often endorse products on social media without giving proper consideration to their efficacy. In some cases, these items are harmless, but in other instances, they can cause harm.

One current fad is the use of activated charcoal toothpaste for positive whitening results. Its value, however, has recently been disproven by a study published by the British Dental Journal earlier this year.

One of the co-authors of the study, Dr. Joseph Greenwall-Cohen recently spoke to the BBC about their findings. 

Dr. Greenwall-Cohen and his peers reviewed 50 activated charcoal products available on the US market in order to examine their effectiveness. The study found that the evidence to support its whitening effects is insufficient and that excessive use of the products can even be harmful. 

"When used too often in people with fillings, it can get into them and become difficult to get out," Dr Greenwall-Cohen told the BBC. "Charcoal particles can also get caught up in the gums and irritate them."

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Furthermore, activated charcoal toothpaste fails to provide fluoride, a substance that is crucial for dental hygiene. This key ingredient in most oral health products plays a part in tooth remineralization and provides protection from decay. Fluoride is an essential additive, especially in areas where one’s primary water supply is not fluoridated.

In a 2017 literature review by The National Center for Biotechnology Information, 50 activated charcoal-based toothpaste were analyzed. Of those, 8% did contain fluoride, but given activated charcoal’s absorbent properties, any fluoride detected in these dentifrices are deemed entirely ineffective - thus leaving teeth prone to decay. Moreover, because the toothpaste normally has an increased amount of abrasive particles compared to traditional toothpaste, regular usage can damage tooth enamel and gums and cause teeth to become much more sensitive.

The 2017 review also analyzed the claims of health and cosmetic benefits made by makers of activated charcoal toothpastes and found insufficient scientific evidence to prove any of their assertions. The benefits that were evaluated include tooth whitening, detoxifying properties, antiseptic or antibacterial effects and strengthening of tooth structure.

 "Charcoal-based toothpastes offer no silver bullets for anyone seeking a perfect smile, and come with real risks attached." said Prof Damien Walmsley of the British Dental Association.

"So don't believe the hype. Anyone concerned about staining or discoloured teeth that can't be shifted by a change in diet, or improvements to their oral hygiene, should see their dentist."

Do you use or have you ever used activated charcoal toothpaste? Did you have any succesful results? Did you notice it harmed your teeth as the studies suggest? Let us know in the comments - and make sure you pass this along to your friends and family!