Charcoal products have become more and more popular over the years. Even if you feel like you could never brush your teeth with something that is primarily used to grill burgers, you’re probably still curious to know whether or not it actually works.
So many charcoal oral products are claiming to be better than traditional oral products. Products such as charcoal toothpaste are said to whiten teeth naturally through use, and charcoal toothbrush companies claim their products can actually absorb plaque and bacteria?
We get that it sounds a little out there. That’s why we’re here today to talk about some of these products, and to share real consumer reviews. There’s plenty to learn from reviews on your own, but we thought it’d be nice if you could do all your charcoal research in one place.
Let’s get started with charcoal toothbrushes.
The Charcoal Toothbrush
It seems complicated to think that anything could absorb bacteria over long periods of time. Where does it go after it’s absorbed? But it is true. Activated charcoal is scientifically proven to remove bacteria, but do consumers feel like it works?
Colgate Slim Soft Charcoal Toothbrush
This product from Colgate, an oral care healthcare giant, has around 3,000 reviews on Amazon and has 4.1 of 5 stars. This product is described as gentle, due to the slim bristles, and deep cleaning, thanks to the charcoal. Some reviewers rave of the product, claiming that they’ll never purchase a different toothbrush.
Colgate 360 Charcoal Toothbrush, Soft Bristles
This slightly more expensive and higher-end version of the previous toothbrush scores 4.3 of 5 stars with reviewers. The product is described as having soft bristles and is said to be great at reaching into the hard to get places. This, because of the bristles cut at different lengths, makes the product unique in its own category.
Dental Expert 5 Pack Charcoal Toothbrush
If you’re in need of a toothbrush that claims to remove 99% of plaque in hard to reach areas, then this might be the right one for you! This is one of the few products we looked into that actually claimed to whiten teeth more because of the charcoal. Dental Expert, actually says that these will help to remove stains caused by smoking, red wine, and coffee.
Do Charcoal Bristles Really Work?
Many Dentists and consumers alike have opinions on this, some positive, some negative. According to this blog post by Quip, charcoal toothbrushes are referred to as marketing fluff. That’s right; all the hype built up around them is nothing more than a great way to sell a few more toothbrushes.
If you’re curious as to whether or not charcoal bristles work for you, then we’d encourage you to contact your local dentist office or come in to see us!
Charcoal Toothpaste and Powder
Next up on the docket is charcoal toothpaste and charcoal powder. Charcoal toothpaste is used just the same as any regular toothpaste. But, the activated charcoal in toothpaste has proven to be much more effective than the toothbrushes. Here are some facts:
There aren’t many, if any, scientifically proven studies about charcoal toothpaste. What there are, though, are independent studies that have shown these products to be very useful and effective. Consumers have eaten up the trend and are still raging about these products.
Hello Oral Care – Activated Charcoal Teeth Whitening Fluoride Free and SLS Free Toothpaste
Hello Oral Care offers a variety of oral care products, especially focusing on activated charcoal toothpaste and powder. This fluoride-free charcoal toothpaste provides you with noticeably whiter teeth, fresher breath, and doesn’t taste bad. If you’re interested in trying a charcoal toothpaste, this might be the one for you. This product has 4.5 of 5 stars on Amazon, and some reviewers have even included before and after pictures.
Activated Charcoal Teeth Whitening Toothpaste
Pro Teeth Whitening Co. offers this 100% all-natural toothpaste. This made in the UK product, boasts 4.3 stars after almost 4,000 reviews.
beaueli Activated Charcoal Teeth Whitening Powder
Another all-natural product, this charcoal powder is to be used in addition to your daily brushing routine. This product claims to be able to make changes to your teeth in just 2-3 days when used twice a day. Just wet your toothbrush, dip it in the powder and brush onto your teeth for 2-3 minutes. Reviews come in at 4.7 stars on Amazon.
Crest Charcoal 3D White Toothpaste
Crest has recently pushed their 3D White line of products, and this charcoal product is has done really well. Consumers love the long-lasting cooling sensation that it offers, and, unlike some of the other toothpaste we’ve mentioned, it contains Flouride.
Just like with charcoal toothbrushes, you should ask your dentist if you have any questions about these products and their safety.
Other Charcoal Products
Charcoal is commonly used in many cosmetic products. Some of the same qualities that are said to work well in toothpaste, such as the absorption of bacteria, are also desirable in products such as face wash or face masks.
While the research still isn’t in on whether or not these products are dangerous or bad in any way, they are commonly used and appear to be safe. Here’s a great article all about charcoal facemasks.
Lastly, there is one more product that seems to be pretty commonly used. Charcoal pills are an ingestable activated charcoal pill that is supposed to help stomach pain, gas, and diarrhea. Of course, it is essential that you consult your doctor before taking this supplement.
Alternatives to At-Home Whitening
One of the big alternatives to at-home whitening with powders and toothpaste is the dentist. A dentist’s office can provide whitening treatments that are long-lasting and extremely effective. At Wayzata Dental, we offer several solutions for teeth whitening.
To learn more about some of our teeth whitening practices, visit our website. We’d love it if you contact us with any questions or to schedule your next appointment for teeth whitening or other dental needs.