A recent dental care trend rising in popularity is charcoal toothpaste, which includes activated charcoal as a primary ingredient. It claims to get rid of stains, flush out toxins, and whiten teeth, but these miraculous promises should be taken with a grain of salt. Here are a few reasons this product doesn't contribute to your oral health.

3 Risks Associated With Charcoal Toothpaste

1. Damaged Enamel

Charcoal toothpaste or powder can appear to whiten teeth by absorbing stains. It eliminates blemishes through tiny particles that use abrasion, but they also erode the enamel. Once the tooth's protective outer layer wears away, it cannot be repaired. It also leads to painful sensitivity and makes the teeth appear yellow, as the dentin underneath is now exposed.

2. Irritated Gums

The abrasive ingredients in charcoal toothpaste affect not only the teeth but also the health of your gums. As the formula's tiny grains wear away the mouth's soft tissues, they can lead to additional dental issues. In severe cases, you could even need the placement of a gum graft. 

Instead of using a charcoal dental care product, ask your dentist about a whitening toothpaste that won't significantly irritate the soft tissues.

3. Impacted Dental Work

Fine grains from charcoal toothpaste can irritate or even cause damage to existing dental work, such as fillings, cracks in the gums, or mild lesions. Damage to teeth, gums, and jawbone, as well as general inflammation and infection, can result from such deterioration over time. The abrasive ingredients that supposedly whiten teeth can also discolor dental work.

If you're seeking a dentist to help you maintain optimum oral health, visit James Julien, DDS, in Kenai, AK. With a broad range of services and a holistic view of dental care, this family dentist has everything needed to keep your smile in excellent condition. They perform all their treatments using the latest techniques and technology within a safe and relaxing environment. Visit their website or call (907) 283-4857 to learn more about their dental care services.