Pros:To date, the only known benefits of charcoal toothpaste are:
- It may help remove surface stains on the teeth.
- It may improve bad breath.
- It may help prevent staining when used occasionally after a professional cleaning.
Cons
The cons of using charcoal toothpaste include:
- It is abrasive and may wear down tooth enamel and make teeth appear yellow.
- It does not remove stains below the enamel.
- Everyday use could cause tooth sensitivity.
- Most brands do not contain fluoride, which helps prevent cavities and tooth decay.
- It could stain older teeth and dental restorations, like veneers, bridges, crowns, and white fillings.
- Its long-term effects and safety are still not known.
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What else works for teeth whitening?
You have plenty of safe and effective options if you are looking to whiten your teeth. Many options are over-the-counter (OTC) whitening products endorsed by the American Dental Association (ADA).
Your options include:
- whitening toothpastes
- whitening strips
- in-office whitening
- dentist supervised at-home whitening
When looking for teeth whitening products, look for ones that have the ADA seal of approval, and ones that contain blue covarine and hydrogen peroxide.
These whitening technologies are the most effective, according to a 2019 studyTrusted Source that compared whitening toothpastes and technologies, including activated charcoal.
Natural home remedies
Although these options may not be as effective as some commercial teeth whitening products, they are more natural and are easy to do. Talk to your dentist first to find out if these options are right for you:
- hydrogen peroxide
- baking soda
- apple cider vinegar
- Regular brushing, including brushing after meals and drinking beverages known to stain teeth — like coffee, tea, and red wine — can help you maintain a whiter smile.
