So, activated charcoal seems to the latest trend right now. From being used in face scrubs and shampoos to being used for medical purposes such as food poisoning and stomach pain, it seems to be our savior. Therefore, before we start discussing any further, let us see what exactly is ‘Activated Charcoal’.
What is activated charcoal?
Substances such as coconut shells, olive pits, wood are slowly burned and ground into a fine powder. This powder is called activated as it is oxidized under extreme heat. It is extremely dark in color, one of the darkest shades of black with a Matt finish. Being both colorless and odorless, it is a perfect ingredient for any product.
Point to be noted that this charcoal is not the same as the charcoal we use for cooking food. Barbecue charcoal is used as fuel and emits toxic carbon dioxide when burned. This has a carcinogenic effect on our health. It binds the toxins and odor and is disposed of later.
Role of Activated Charcoal in Teeth Whitening
As stated earlier, activated charcoal is being used as one of the primary substances for teeth whitening in Kolkata. You will find many youtube videos, DIY posts, and blogs speaking highly of the whitening properties of this substance.
Therefore, after much research, we have come to the conclusion that all its dental benefits are the result of three of its property- abrasive texture, absorbent property and a wide surface area.
Due to its abrasive texture, it can be used while brushing our teeth. When activated charcoal is rubbed on the enamel of our teeth, it gets rid of any particle sticking to it. Imagine you are polishing a piece of dirty stone with sandpaper, now you get it.
Its absorbent property comes to use when we consume food with low levels of toxin in it. In times, we also give out foul odor from our mouth. Being highly absorbent, it binds all the foul particles together. When we wash our mouth, not only do we wash off the activated charcoal but also these harmful substances with it. To sum it up, activated charcoal reduces plaque build-up.
Precautions while using activated Charcoal
While it has many useful properties, if used daily, activated charcoal can also be harmful.
One of the main problems as observed by the best dentist in Kolkata is the wearing off of enamel. Although enamel is the toughest tissue in our body, it is not immune to wear and tear. Due to its highly abrasive texture, it will lead to wearing of the enamel when used daily. Thinning of enamel is will lead to an array of dental problems. Be careful with it and do not overdo it.
Another common problem with the usage of activated charcoal is the staining of the teeth, veneers, bridges and crowns. One must wash their mouth thoroughly after the usage of charcoal. Being a fine powder, charcoal tends to get inside of cracks and gaps. If it stays stuck there, it will stain that area.
Charcoal solves the problem superficially. It is useful in removing the stains formed on the outer layers of the enamel. But it cannot be used to remove the stains on the deeper layers of the tooth.
The Solution
According to the best dental clinic in Kolkata, to get the best result one should use activated charcoal twice a week. That way you can have semi-regular mouth cleansing without wearing off your enamel.