Let us discuss the latest trend that has taken the dental world by
storm: charcoal toothpaste. You have probably seen it in stores, online, and
all over social media, with promises of pearly whites and a captivating smile.
However, before you jump on the charcoal bandwagon, let us explore the truth
behind this trendy product.
Charcoal toothpaste is a black paste that contains activated charcoal, a
highly absorbent substance known for its ability to bind to toxins and
impurities. People are drawn to it for its supposed teeth-whitening properties
and detoxifying effects. However, let us shed some light on why dentists are
not big fans of this trend.
Statistics show that charcoal toothpaste may do more harm than good. A
study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association revealed that
charcoal toothpaste can be excessively abrasive, with an RDA (Relative Dentin
Abrasivity) value ranging from 76 to 151 (Albuquerque et al., 2017). To put
this into perspective, the ideal RDA value for toothpaste should be below 70 to
avoid enamel erosion.
Furthermore, another study in the British Dental Journal found that
charcoal-based oral care products may not deliver the promised teeth-whitening
results. The researchers concluded that charcoal toothpaste could remove
surface stains but lacked the bleaching agents to penetrate the enamel and
provide a whitening effect (Majeed et al., 2019).
Now, let us uncover the secret behind charcoal toothpaste's popularity:
advertising. With mesmerizing black-and-white visuals and claims of miraculous
transformations, it is no wonder this dental trend has spread like wildfire.
Clever marketing and social media influencers have created a buzz around
charcoal toothpaste, enticing people with the allure of a Hollywood smile.
So, what is the safest way to achieve a dazzling smile? Professional
teeth whitening treatments conducted by your dentist. This provides the safest
and most effective results. Research indicates that whitening treatments
completed in a dental surgery can lighten teeth by 5-7 shades, while at-home
kits supervised by dentists can improve 2-3 shades (Li et al., 2018).
Remember, oral health should never be compromised for a passing trend.
Let us keep our teeth and gums healthy by sticking to trusted oral care
practices recommended by dental professionals. Moreover, if you are itching for
a brighter smile, consult your dentist for the safest, most reliable whitening
options.
So, as you navigate the world of oral care trends, be cautious of
charcoal toothpaste. Trust your dentist's advice and keep your smile healthy
and shining.
References:
- Albuquerque MT, Valera MC, Moreira AN, et
al. (2017). Bacterial adhesion on the surface of charcoal-containing
dentifrices: A confocal laser scanning microscopy analysis. Journal of the
American Dental Association, 148(7), 510-517.
- Li Y, Greenwall L, Saad S, et al. (2018).
Comparative evaluation of two in-office bleaching treatments of
tetracycline-stained teeth: 2-year follow-up. Journal of Dentistry, 70,
105-112.
- Majeed A, Farooq I, Grobler SR, et al.
(2019). Charcoal and charcoal-based dentifrices: A literature review.
British Dental Journal, 226(4), 251-259.
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