Risk alert on charcoal-based toothpastes

According to a new review published today in the British Dental Journal, consumers should be warned that ‘gimmicky’ over-the-counter charcoal-based toothpastes or powders do not whiten teeth and may have the potential for increasing health risks such as abrasions. The review casts serious doubts about the marketing and benefits of such products.

Dentists are also urged to educate their patients about unproven oral health benefit claims and the possible health risks associated with the use of charcoal pastes and powders, which could also potentially increase risk of developing tooth decay from use of non-fluoridated or possibly because the charcoal can inactivate the fluoride products inside the toothpaste.