Charcoal is included in toothpaste primarily for its ability to help remove surface stains on teeth.
How Charcoal Works in Toothpaste
Activated charcoal possesses properties that can contribute to a brighter smile, specifically by targeting extrinsic (surface) stains.
- Mildly Abrasive: Charcoal particles are slightly abrasive. This physical property helps to gently scrub away surface discoloration from the tooth enamel when brushing.
- Absorbent Qualities: Activated charcoal is also known for its ability to absorb certain substances. In the context of toothpaste, this means it can, to some degree, bind to and absorb surface stains, aiding in their removal.
What Charcoal Toothpaste Does Not Do
While charcoal toothpaste can be effective at removing surface stains, it's important to understand its limitations:
- No Effect on Deeper Stains: There is no scientific evidence to suggest that charcoal toothpaste has any impact on stains that are below the tooth's enamel. These deeper stains typically require professional dental treatments for removal.
- Not a Natural Whitening Agent: Unlike some chemical whitening agents, charcoal does not inherently change the natural color of your teeth. Its effect is limited to the removal of external stains, revealing the natural shade of the tooth beneath.
In summary, the inclusion of charcoal in toothpaste aims to leverage its mild abrasiveness and absorbent nature to help lift and remove superficial stains, contributing to a cleaner and potentially brighter appearance of the teeth.
