Teeth whitening is one of the few cosmetic dental treatments that is purely aesthetic. Because of this, dental insurance unfortunately doesn’t typically offer any coverage for patients seeking pearlier teeth. But an enhanced smile can boost your confidence and self-esteem, and studies show that employers gravitate towards whiter dental lineups. So it makes perfect sense that many people would turn to DIY teeth whitening!
However, the vast majority of over-the-counter products fail to deliver satisfying results. Is the newest trend, activated charcoal, another item on a long list of disappointments? Or is it the breakthrough whitening solution everyone’s been waiting for? Keep reading to find out!
What is Activated Charcoal?
This type of charcoal is only slightly different than what you’d use for your backyard grill. It goes through an extra heating process that “activates” it chemically, changing its properties and benefits. Instead of kindling, activated charcoal is primarily used in the medical field to detox poisonings and drug overdoses. Funny how one little change can affect a substance, huh?
How Does Activated Charcoal Whiten Teeth?
Activated charcoal, like so many over-the-counter and DIY whitening solutions, is very abrasive. Harsh ingredients and a rough texture remove dental stains by wearing down your enamel! Because most stains get caught in this protective surface layer, the more it’s rubbed away, the brighter your smile appears.
Is Weakened Enamel Problematic?
Very! Enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, which makes it an excellent shield for your teeth. Without it, more sensitive dental layers would be exposed – which is why soft enamel is often associated with severe tooth sensitivity. This also makes it easier for harmful bacteria to infect your pearly whites with tooth decay.
Is Professional Teeth Whitening Really Any Better?
Your dentist’s teeth whitening solutions are both more effective and safer than the vast majority of over-the-counter products, including activated charcoal. How can that be?
Well, dentists are qualified to use and provide stronger, smoother whitening agents. Systems like Opalescence in-office and at-home whitening usually use soft gels that are more kind to your teeth than rough toothpastes or raw ingredients. With your dentist’s skills, you can reasonably expect your smile to become up to ten shades whiter!
Stay Informed and Talk to Your Dentist
No one blames you for wanting shinier teeth. Most people desire the same thing! But your dentist does want what’s best for your oral health. Many DIY whitening solutions simply aren’t worth the risk – even if it involves something with other health benefits, such as activated charcoal.
That said, you’re not out of luck. Your dentist’s professional whitening skills are safer and more effective and can be made affordable. Ask your friendly neighborhood dental professional about whitening your teeth, as well as financing options such as CareCredit. You could be closer to achieving your dream smile than you think!
About the Practice
At Indy Dental Group, we’re proud to offer CareCredit financing to help make cosmetic dental treatments more affordable for our patients. For teeth whitening, we use the highly trusted Opalescence system and can provide in-office or at-home treatment. If you’d like to safely brighten your smile with glamorous results, contact one of our convenient office locations or request an appointment online.