Vegetable charcoal toothpaste would be more natural and very effective according to its supporters. However, caution is required because improperly used, this product can permanently damage tooth enamel.
Vegetable charcoal invades the shelves of drugstores. Its detoxifying properties are used in very different products: in the form of capsules in cure, in exfoliation for the face and even in the form of toothpaste to whiten the teeth. American and British dentists warn patients that too much charcoal can damage teeth.
Properties linked to its texture
The trend for charcoal comes from the United States where celebrities, bloggers and influencers use it as a beauty product but also in their food. This product is made from soft woods like linden or poplar or with coconut shells. These materials are heated without oxygen, then treated with air and water, which will form rough edges. It is in the latter that the interesting properties of vegetable charcoal reside. The toxins and bacteria will settle in the rough edges and be eliminated with the charcoal.
No reliable study on the subject
In 2017, the Journal of the American Dental Association published a review of studies conducted on the use of toothpaste based on vegetable charcoal. The researchers conclude that none of the research confirms the effectiveness of these products, nor their safety.
Questionable effects
To read more on this #story and the thoughts of @DrNigelCarter we #charcoal activated products follow this link: https://t.co/G7uMUfq5Ju pic.twitter.com/NBzYOYz9z2
– OralHealthFoundation (@dentalhealthorg) April 24, 2018
Following the publication of these findings, the British body Oral Health Foundation published an article on the myths and realities of charcoal toothpaste. The text reminds us that the fashion for toothpaste made from vegetable charcoal comes from celebrities, and that their results should be taken with a grain of salt.
Dr Nigel Carter, Director of the Oral Health Foundation, explains: “Most of the time, celebrities have previously had professional teeth whitening, so their white teeth are not a direct result of the use. of these products “. The toothpaste based on vegetable charcoal would have only superficial effects. “Many toothpastes that promise to whiten your teeth actually just remove surface stains and do not provide a lasting radiant smile,” he says.
Risks for enamel
In an article at Huff Post American, Doctor Nicole Khalife, dentist in New York, recalls that these products can be dangerous. You should choose a very fine powder, less abrasive, and do not use them more than once a month. If these products are abused, the risk is damaging the enamel which does not regenerate. Teeth become more sensitive and more likely to be contaminated with cavities. For white and healthy teeth, the only thing to do is to seek advice from your dentist, who can recommend more classic, but more reliable techniques.
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