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Does Charcoal Toothpaste Actually Work?

Radhika Hitkari | Dec 10, 2025, 16:00 IST
charcoal toothbrush
charcoal toothbrush
( Image credit : Freepik )
In this article, we will look into whether charcoal toothpaste, which is being widely used by people and has gained a lot of popularity due to its viral claims, is actually effective and safe for use or not. We will also look into some of the potential side effects if people use it daily.
Highlights
  • Charcoal toothpaste can help in removing stains from the tooth surface.
  • Charcoal toothpaste can be too abrasive for the teeth.
  • Unlike regular toothpaste, charcoal toothpaste does not have fluoride.
Many people use charcoal toothpaste, which has become a popular trend among people, as it helps them to keep their teeth clean and white through a healthier approach. Multiple toothpaste companies use activated charcoal that is made from coconut shells, wood, and other substances, which are oxidized at high temperatures.

Many people believe that using charcoal toothpaste helps in removing the surface stains from the teeth. However, using too much charcoal toothpaste can also be abrasive for the teeth.

Is Charcoal Toothpaste Safe?


brushing teeth
brushing teeth
( Image credit : Freepik )

More stories on is charcoal toothpaste safe


Charcoal does have good absorption properties and can help in removing toxins. But it's important to know that whether charcoal toothpaste is effective or safe for use is not yet proven and it can cause more damage to the teeth instead of improving them.

Unlike regular toothpastes, that has bleaching and abrasives agents for teeth whitening charcoal toothpaste is known to be dependent on activated charcoal properties that help in removing the stains from the teeth. Charcoal toothpaste might have become a popular trend among people but it can have certain side effects on the teeth if its regularly used. Some people even believe that charcoal toothpastes can improve bad breath however there is no sufficient amount of evidence to prove that.

There are people who believe that charcoal toothpaste does help in keeping the teeth naturally white, however there is no concrete evidence to support this. According to a study published by the National Library of Medicine using charcoal toothpaste does not provide any better whitening results when it is used for brushing teeth but instead it can lead to cause some roughness on the tooth's surface due to enamel abrasion. Charcoal toothpaste can have certain side effects on the teeth so people need to be careful while using it for their teeth.

Side effects of Charcoal Toothpaste


Increased sensitivity: Charcoal toothpaste can increase or worsen the teeth sensitivity instead of reducing it.

Does not have fluoride: Unlike regular toothpastes which has ingredients that improve tooth enamel and prevents tooth decay, charcoal toothpaste does not contain fluoride which can lower its effectiveness on the teeth.

Gum Irritation: Charcoal toothpaste can increase irritation due to its weird texture and cause damage to the soft gum tissue.

Increase stains around dental work: Charcoal toothpaste can stains in the crowns, bridges, veneers, and white fillings.

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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

  1. Is charcoal toothpaste FDA approved?
    Charcoal toothpaste is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the American Dental Association (ADA).
  2. How long does it take for charcoal toothpaste to whiten?
    There's no definitive timeframe for charcoal toothpaste to give noticeable results, and the effectiveness can vary depending on the severity of stains and individual oral hygiene practices.
  3. Does brushing three times a day make teeth whiter?
    Regular brushing removes plaque and surface stains, but it doesn't change the natural color of your teeth or tackle deeper discoloration.

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