Charcoal Teeth Whitening After Zoom?

I had Zoom Whitening a couple of years ago and it gave me fantastic results but it was a bit on the painful side because I have sensitive teeth. My teeth have begun to pick up stains again. I keep reading that charcoal can be a fantastic teeth whitener. Is that a good solution for someone like me whose teeth are sensitive to do touch ups?

Carly A.

Dear Carly,

So, here’s the thing charcoal whitening has been gaining popularity as a result of YouTube. Unfortunately, not everything you hear on the internet is accurate. Here’s the real scoop of charcoal.

But, first…

A Warning!

The YouTube articles are referring to activated charcoal which is completely different from the stuff you use in your grill!

What’s True about Charcoal Teeth Whitening Videos

• TRUE: Activated charcoal is safe to ingest. It is even used medicinally and is sold as a supplement as a detoxifier.
• TRUE: It is absorbent. That’s how they promote it as a teeth whitening product. But, there is a danger here, which we’ll get into next.

What’s False about Charcoal Teeth Whitening Videos

• FALSE: It is safe to use on your teeth. Every substance on earth has an abrasiveness factor. You’ve probably heard that diamonds are one of the hardest substances on earth and can cut glass. Charcoal is abrasive enough to damage the enamel on your teeth. So, while it will remove some stains, once your enamel is gone, it’s gone. Instead of beautiful teeth, you’ll have dull teeth susceptible to decay. This will do more damage to teeth than make them white.

A Safe Way to Get Safe White Teeth

Professional teeth whitening is the best way to freshen up your teeth. I realize Zoom Whitening was hard on you, but you won’t need that for a touch-up. Usually, your dentist will also make a pair of take-home whitening trays for you. That way when you need a little brightening all you need is some professional gel from your dentist. This is much more gentle than Zoom and you only have to wear it until you find you’re back to what you remember.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Mike Mavrotomos.