Activated Charcoal: Does it Work for Whitening Teeth?

activated charcoal

People have tried countless home remedies for whitening teeth. However, one method that works is the use of charcoal. No, we are not talking about the type of charcoal that is used for barbeques, rather, a different type of charcoal.

Activated charcoal is a fine powder that is made by milling coconut shells, sawdust, olive pits, coal and bone chars. The mixture is subjected to very hot conditions that activate it by changing its structure and making it extremely porous. The activated charcoal is heated to get rid of any toxic substances in the mixture that may be harmful to the health of the user. Let us take a closer look at how activated charcoal is used for whitening teeth.

How activated charcoal whitens teeth

1. Absorption of plaque

Plaque is a sticky deposit that is left on the surface of the teeth when food particles are left on them for extended periods. When plaque accumulates for quite a long period of time, it turns into tartar which has a yellow color. When activated charcoal is used to brush teeth, the plaque and tartar are absorbed by the charcoal hence whitening teeth.

2. Fights tannins

Tannins are substances that are found in beverages like red wine, coffee and many other common drinks. The substances are responsible for most stains and discoloration on a person’s teeth. When someone uses activated charcoal to brush the teeth, the stains are attracted to the charcoal due to its properties and this reaction leaves teeth whiter.

How is activated charcoal used for whitening teeth?

Here is how a person should use this treatment to whiten their teeth:

  1. Grind down the activated charcoal if necessary. It is sometimes sold in tablet form.
  2. Add some enough water and stir the mixture to form a paste.
  3. Get a clean toothbrush and dip it in the mixture. Try to get as much as possible on the brush.
  4. Brush teeth using the paste. Each brushing session should take about two minutes.
  5. Alternatively, the paste can be applied to teeth and given time to bond with them. The patient can then brush the paste off with a toothbrush.
  6. Spit the paste and rinse the mouth thoroughly.
  7. The entire process should be repeated until noticeable changes are seen.

Activated charcoal is one of those home remedies that actually work. If you are dealing with mild stains and discoloration, try using activated charcoal to brush your teeth and you will be amazed by the results.

This teeth whitening remedy is most effective on surface stains. If you are dealing with deep stains, a professional teeth whitening session performed by a dentist is needed to get your teeth back to its original color.

Feeling self-conscious about the color of your teeth? Talk to one of our dentists about the many different ways the color of your teeth can be improved. Restore the appearance of your teeth today.

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Request an appointment to discuss teeth whitening with our Chandler dentist .