Whiten your Teeth with Activated Charcoal?

While the underlying health of your teeth and gums is most important, a white, bright smile increases your look and confidence. From professional LED whitening to the installation of porcelain veneers, there are many ways to whiten teeth. However, more and more people are choosing natural options for removing surface stains and discoloration. Today, the use of charcoal is becoming a popular, yet surprising, way to whiten and brighten teeth.

The 101 of Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is most likely not a common item in your medicine cabinet or pantry, but it is readily available at your local health food or supplement store. Considering most people purchase in capsule form, you will need to break open the capsule before pouring the black powder into a bowl to create the whitening treatment.

While surprising to hear, the charcoal was first used hundreds of years ago after a miner swallowed poison. After swallowing charcoal, they realized the poisons were absorbed and the worker was safe. Today, it is a great option for absorbing surface debris, dirt, and plaque from your teeth.

How to Use

OF course, you may not be familiar with how to use activated charcoal as a tooth whitener. Use the following steps to whiten your teeth efficiently and effectively:

Pour 1 teaspoon of water into a glass.
Add 1 teaspoon of the charcoal powder to the water and stir.
After allowing the charcoal to soak in the water for a few seconds, you should have a paste.
Wash your hands and dry completely.
Use your clean fingertips to apply a coat of the charcoal paste directly to your teeth.
Allow the black paste to rest on your teeth for 15 minutes.
Rinse with warm water and brush your teeth as usual.

Using activated charcoal once a day will remove stains, yellowing, and brighten the overall white color of your teeth. While unique, the treatment is effective for most people.