The list of DIY beauty hacks is long — and they range from simple, like using vaseline to moisturize dry skin, to quite complex and sometimes even dangerous. In the world of cosmetic dentistry, one of the more surprising “hacks” is using charcoal to whiten teeth. But does it work? The answer is inconclusive — yet the thing that is for sure is that it can put your smile at real risk. Keep reading to learn more about this trend and why it is a good idea to partner with your dentist for professional teeth whitening instead.
About Charcoal Whitening
Activated charcoal comes from a variety of natural sources, like coconut shells, wood, and olive pits. It is not the same as the charcoal you use for barbecuing, as activated charcoal is nontoxic. And the key word, activated, means it binds to toxins and odors rather than soaking them in. That feature is what has led the thinking that it’s useful for whitening teeth but, despite its presence in a variety of toothpastes, gels, and on many a DIY YouTube channel, activated charcoal has not been proven to be effective as a tooth whitener. Dental products that contain the substance cannot earn the American Dental Association (ADA) stamp of approval.
Know the Risks
In fact, activated charcoal may actually harm your smile by wearing down the tooth enamel. That is the outer layer that protects the tooth from the acids and bacteria that cause cavities and other problems. The enamel is hard, but it is not invincible. Keeping it healthy and intact is important for your lasting oral health.
Choose Professional Whitening
If you are interested in whitening your teeth, the best way to go about it is by partnering with your dentist for a professional treatment. They can evaluate your smile and provide a customized approach that will be safe for your smile and provide real results.
There are two ways to go about whitening your teeth with a dentist:
- An in-office treatment: Good for patients with significant discoloration or those who want quick results, this option is usually completed in less than an hour at the dentist’s office. You leave with your whiter smile on the very same day.
- A take-home treatment: Patients who wish to whiten their teeth over the course of one to two weeks can do so with a customized take-home kit, which works just as well and usually costs less than the in-office treatment. It also gives you the ability to easily “touch up” if discoloration begins to return months later.
In summary, your smile is worth more than a DIY beauty hack — especially one that puts it at risk. Do not hesitate to contact your cosmetic dentist to learn more about professional teeth whitening. You deserve real results!
Meet the Dentist
Dr. L. Blaine Kennington, DDS has been practicing dentistry in Castle Rock since 1984. Patients trust him for a variety of services, including teeth whitening. To learn more about his services or cosmetic dentistry, do not hesitate to contact the office at (360) 703-9092.