In recent years, activated charcoal toothpaste has gained popularity as it is promoted as a natural method of teeth whitening and detoxification. But how effective and safe is this black paste really? A closer look at scientific studies and expert opinions reveals potential risks and questionable benefits.
Questionable effectiveness in teeth whitening
Many consumers turn to activated charcoal toothpaste in the hope of a bright white smile. Activated charcoal can basically bind bacteria and dirt particles like a sponge. Manufacturers also want to use this effect in toothpaste. According to dentists, however, this does not work when used as toothpaste, as the charcoal is then already bound with the other ingredients in the toothpaste and is therefore no longer absorbable.
From a scientific point of view, there is little solid evidence for the effectiveness of activated charcoal in teeth whitening. A 2017 study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association concluded that there is insufficient clinical data to support the cosmetic or health benefits of activated charcoal in dental care products – at least in the long term. In the short term, the abrasive effect can certainly whiten teeth, as superficial discoloration is literally sanded away.
Abrasion and tooth damage caused by activated carbon
Studies, dentists and even health insurance companies expressly warn against the abrasive effect of activated charcoal on tooth enamel. In comparison to conventional toothpaste, activated charcoal acts like sandpaper, which not only removes impurities but also gradually grinds away the tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is the hard, natural protective layer of the teeth. Without tooth enamel, teeth are softer, extremely susceptible to tooth decay and sensitive to temperature and acid. With current methods, tooth enamel that has been removed cannot be rebuilt or can only be rebuilt with great effort.
Caries risk from fluoride-free activated charcoal toothpaste
Many activated charcoal toothpastes do not contain fluoride, a mineral that has been shown to help prevent tooth decay. Avoiding fluoride toothpaste can increase the risk of tooth decay, especially if the activated charcoal toothpaste is used as the sole dental care product (see Carey 2014). Activated charcoal is therefore not a suitable substitute for fluoride.
The most popular fluoride-containing activated charcoal toothpaste on Amazon is Colgate Max White Charcoal toothpaste. The popular vegan activated charcoal toothpaste SuperBlack from happybrush also contains fluoride. If you still want to avoid fluoride, you can do so with the charcoal toothpaste from BIOMED or a slightly cheaper bamboo charcoal toothpaste made in China.
Possible discoloration and aesthetic concerns
Ironically, regular use of activated charcoal toothpaste can cause discoloration. Activated charcoal particles can become trapped in cracks and crevices of tooth enamel or in restorative materials, resulting in gray or black discoloration (Greenwall et al. 2019).
Conclusion: Better avoid activated charcoal toothpaste
Although activated charcoal toothpaste is marketed as a natural alternative to traditional toothpastes, the potential risks outweigh the unproven benefits. Dentists therefore advise caution and recommend seeking professional advice before using such products. For effective and safe dental care, fluoride toothpastes and regular dental check-ups remain the proven choice.
Sources:
- Brooks, J. K., Bashirelahi, N., & Reynolds, M. A. (2017). Charcoal and charcoal-based dentifrices: A literature review. Journal of the American Dental Association, 148(9), 661-670.
- Carey, C. M. (2014). Focus on fluorides: Update on the use of fluoride for the prevention of dental caries. Journal of Evidence-Based Dental Practice, 14, 95-102.
- Greenwall, L. H., Greenwall-Cohen, J., & Wilson, N. H. F. (2019). Charcoal-containing dentifrices. British Dental Journal, 226, 697-700.
- Intarak, N., & Chuenarrom, C. (2021). Abrasivity of charcoal-containing dentifrices on human enamel and dentin. Journal of Oral Science, 63(1), 65-68.