Once known for its detoxifying properties in medical emergencies, activated charcoal has taken the dental world by storm, promising a brighter, whiter smile. One of the most touted benefits of charcoal-based toothpaste is its ability to remove surface stains from teeth. It’s also said to help neutralize bad breath without any additives, flavors, or colors. With many products on the market, it can be daunting to discern which charcoal toothpaste truly delivers on its promises. We’ll delve into the top picks, demystifying the choices and guiding you to some of the best charcoal toothpaste that truly shines. But, first, how does it work?
Benefits of Charcoal Toothpaste:
Charcoal toothpaste offers a range of potential benefits, including:
- Teeth Whitening: Charcoal’s porous structure is believed to adsorb and remove surface stains from teeth, leading to a gradual whitening effect.
- Odor Control: Charcoal’s ability to bind and neutralize odor-causing molecules may help combat bad breath and promote fresher breath.
- Plaque Reduction: Charcoal’s abrasive nature may aid in removing plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that can contribute to gum disease and tooth decay.
- Natural Detoxification: Charcoal’s detoxifying properties may help remove toxins and impurities from the mouth, promoting oral health.
With a growing number of charcoal toothpastes available, selecting the right one is crucial. Consider these factors when making your choice:
- Look for toothpastes in which the charcoal is activated, as this form has been processed to increase its surface area and adsorptive capacity.
- Opt for toothpastes with a low to medium abrasiveness index to avoid damaging tooth enamel.
- Additional beneficial ingredients like fluoride for cavity protection or natural antibacterial agents are also something to look out for.
We should point out that charcoal toothpaste isn’t for everyone. Its abrasive nature can lead to enamel erosion if used too frequently and it doesn’t always contain fluoride, a compound recognized for its cavity-fighting properties. It’s a good idea to talk to a dentist or dental hygienist about which dental care products are best for you. If you’re interested in exploring the trend, we’ve conducted thorough research and compiled a list of the top seven best charcoal toothpastes for you. Let us know what you think in the comments below.
The List: Best Charcoal Toothpaste, According to Experts
1. hello Activated Charcoal Toothpaste
The hello brand tops our list and just about everyone else’s. In a video posted on Dentaly, one user named Karrie shares her experience using the black toothpaste saying she’s impressed with her results so far. “This is a great option for her as she doesn’t have the money to spend on regular professional teeth whitening treatments.”
Byrdie adds, “In addition to activated charcoal powder, it contains hydrated silica to boost the brightening effects, coconut to soothe and protect the gums, and fluoride to fend off cavities. (There’s also a fluoride-free version.) We’re big fans of the slightly sweet, minty flavor too.”
“The formula is vegan and includes natural ingredients for those who are concerned about chemicals,” says Don’t Waste Your Money. “It has a minty taste without an aftertaste due to the absence of artificial sweeteners.”
2. Cali White Activated Charcoal & Organic Coconut Oil Whitening Toothpaste
“Unlike some other brands, this product does not slip in any unrecognizable ingredients,” according to Sleepopolis. “The main actors are just activated charcoal, certified organic coconut oil, and baking soda, all non-GMO. The Pacific Mint flavor blends with the desired cleaning properties to create a taste that proves fresh and enduring. After starting daily use, it took no time to become comfortable with the activated charcoal. This product is great for those who are looking to whiten their teeth in a natural way without spending a fortune.”
Hollywood Life writes, “If you’re on the quest for an organic certified and vegan formula, then you should definitely have a look at the Cali White Natural Charcoal Toothpaste. It’s made out of seven natural ingredients and doesn’t contain any gluten, soy, latex, dairy, or fluoride. So, you can experience the benefits of charcoal without having to worry about any unpleasant side effects.”
“Natural ingredients give this toothpaste whitening power without the tooth pain that come with other whiteners,” according to Don’t Waste Your Money.
3. Crest Charcoal 3D White Toothpaste
This toothpaste, which comes in at third on our list has more than 16,000 five-star ratings from Amazon customers. According to Spy, “The unique, black-and-white striped toothpaste contains fluoride and charcoal powder to remove surface stains, strengthen enamel, and gently whiten teeth. Plus, the paste’s invigorating mint flavor delivers a cooling sensation to leave your mouth feeling and smelling fresh for the day or night ahead.”
One reviewer told Dentaly, “This actually does produce visible lightening. It feels like the polishing you get at the dentist, which means it likely is removing more enamel than most toothpastes, but it gets the job done.”
“The fun black and white stripe look of this toothpaste makes it a fun alternative to traditional charcoal toothpastes,” adds Don’t Waste Your Money. “Hydrated silica is a mild but effective cleanser that removes surface stains. It also includes fluoride to keep cavities at bay.”
4. Colgate Essential Charcoal Whitening Toothpaste
Byrdie calls this the best drugstore option. “This gray-toned, enamel-safe paste contains ultra-fine ‘micro-cleaning crystals’ to tackle surface stains and gradually brighten your teeth, while fluoride prevents tooth decay.”
“This Colgate Charcoal Teeth Whitening Toothpaste is a tried-and-tested way to achieve a whiter smile,” according to Spy. “Given its backing of more than 7,000 five-star ratings from Amazon customers, you can be confident this whitening and freshening toothpaste will work for you, too. The toothpaste is safe for daily use and contains several micro-polishers which work to remove stains and impurities from your teeth. Its cooling mint flavor also ensures your mouth feels clean and smells fresh after every use.”
“I swear my teeth feel cleaner and more refreshed using this more than any other toothpaste I’ve tried,” according to one reviewer on Dentaly. “I hope it stays in their product line and isn’t just a passing trend. It’s seriously my favorite go-to toothpaste now!”
5. Dental Expert Activated Charcoal Toothpaste
Hollywood Life writes, “The Dental Expert Teeth Whitening Kit is here to provide you with the best value for your money. It includes everything that you can possibly need to get a brighter smile – one professional toothbrush (featuring a convenient handle and fine bristles), one charcoal toothpaste (made out of tested natural ingredients), and one special tongue cleaner (get rid of any bacteria in your mouth and improve your oral health). When used collectively, this trio will be able to remove even some of the deepest stains on your teeth and help you acquire a brighter smile.”
“The coconut-oil toothpaste strengthens your enamel and freshens your breath with its minty flavor,” according to Spy. “It’s also 100% natural and made from bamboo charcoal and a number of other natural ingredients, meaning the toothpaste is free from artificial colorings and other harmful chemicals. In addition, this set has the backing of more than 11,500 five-star ratings from Amazon customers.”
Stylecraze adds, “It is the perfect solution for fighting bad breath, removing yellow stains, reducing discoloration, and preventing oral ulcers and other common dental health problems.”
6. Tom’s of Maine Charcoal Fluoride Free
According to Spy, “Tom’s of Maine products are cruelty-free, strive to use only sustainable practices during production, and donate a percentage from every sale to support human and environmental projects.”
Mom’s Junction says this brand is, “Made from naturally derived silica, fights tarter buildup, comes in a recyclable tube, and is certified by B Corp for sustainability.”
“This Activated Charcoal Toothpaste from Tom’s of Maine is free of fluoride and any synthetic colors, flavors, and preservatives,” writes Stylecraze. “It is entirely safe for daily use as the natural charcoal toothpaste formula is gentle on the enamel. It naturally whitens the teeth and gently removes surface stains from the teeth.”
7. Schmidt’s Wondermint with Charcoal
This brand isn’t as well known as others on our list, but it gets high marks. One reviewer told Dentaly, “This is the best charcoal toothpaste on the market (IMHO)! Pleasant taste / leaves mouth and teeth feeling very clean. Does a good job whitening teeth and leaves breath fresh. I’ve purchased many times.”
“Schmidt’s Activated Charcoal Toothpaste doesn’t just whiten and gently polish your teeth, it freshens breath and tastes good while you brush,” according to Spy. “The vegan-friendly and cruelty-free formula includes a mixture of vitamins, botanical extracts, wondermint, activated charcoal, and other plant-based ingredients.”
Mom Junction loves this because “its mint flavor has a natural feel, it’s safe for those with asthma and it gives visible results gradually.”
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