How much does activated charcoal actually help our smile?
The secret of healthy teeth and gums is not a secret to anyone. In fact, it just comes down to three things: a) brushing twice a day, b) flossing once a day, and c) regular cleaning visits.
That’s enough, says Dr. Matthew Messina, clinical director and assistant professor of dentistry at The Ohio State University.
But dentists often say we can do more in the name of oral health. And with new trends emerging from time to time, marketing also plays its role.
However, there are good and bad habits, e.g. When it comes to brushing:
Bad habit: Using a toothbrush or toothpaste with activated charcoal
What is activated carbon?
In fact, it is the black powder of burnt material such as coal. It is primarily made from wood, coconut shells, and other natural materials that oxidize under extreme heat. It is a highly absorbent material and is used medically to absorb and remove toxins.
Charcoal toothbrushes and toothpastes can be effective at whitening teeth, but the benefits they offer come at a cost.
“Coal is incredibly corrosive,” notes Mr. Messina.
“It whitens your teeth by scrubbing away the outer surface layer of tooth enamel,” she explains.
Enamel is the hard, crystalline tissue that covers and protects your teeth. While some enamel removal may temporarily result in a brighter smile, over time the lost enamel will weaken your teeth and cause stains, cracks, cavities and other problems.
“The body doesn’t produce more enamel, so anything that erodes it is a bad idea,” he said.
Good habit: Brushing gently with a soft toothbrush
Using a hard-bristled toothbrush and brushing too hard can also wear down the enamel and pull the gums and damage the teeth.
Clinical associate professor of the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry Dr. “People in general tend to brush too hard and that can damage your teeth and gums,” says Natalie Peterson.
“If the bristles of the brush loosen or loosen while brushing, you’re using too much pressure.”
Instead, you should brush lightly with a soft toothbrush and try to hold it like a pencil, “because it’s harder to apply too much pressure holding it that way,” he said.
If you forget to brush gently, switching to an electric toothbrush can be helpful, as many warn if you apply too much pressure.