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Activated charcoal is powdered charcoal made from burning coconut shells, coal, bone char, or sawdust. It is usually used as an ingredient in toothpaste because of its ability to absorb dirt and impurities. Of late, the best charcoal toothpaste combines typical ingredients and activated charcoal to clean gums and teeth effectively. Along with lifting stains from teeth, the toothpaste whitens the teeth and makes them look brighter.
If you are wondering if activated charcoal toothpaste is right for you, this post is for you. We have compiled a list of some oral care expert-recommended and best activated charcoal toothpastes you may consider.
Top Picks
Benefits Of Activated Charcoal For Brushing Teeth
Activated charcoal is believed to whiten teeth as it is highly porous and has a high surface area. In fact, approximately 96% of activated charcoal toothpastes available commercially claim to whiten teeth effectively. However, as no scientific studies have proven the benefits of activated charcoal on oral health, care should be taken when choosing one, and one should limit its use to not more than twice a week (1).
11 Best Charcoal Toothpastes
1. Best Vegan:Cali White Activated Charcoal Teeth Whitening Toothpaste
The clinically tested Cali White charcoal toothpaste is a natural and vegan formulation for whitening teeth. It is free of SLS, gluten, fluoride, peroxide, parabens, and other harmful chemicals. Instead, it is infused with the goodness of activated charcoal, organic coconut oil, baking soda, tea tree oil, diatomaceous earth, xylitol oil, and peppermint oil. The xylitol oil and peppermint oil give the toothpaste an organic mint flavor and help fight bad breath. Moreover, the toothpaste has been formulated in an FDA-certified facility and is clinically proven to whiten teeth by up to 7.7 shades. To know how the toothpaste works, watch this review video.
Pros
- Helps eliminate plaque
- Goes well with flossing
- Does not foam due to coconut oil
- No tooth or gum sensitivity
Cons
- May not suit children below six years
- Charcoal may stain clothes
"This toothpaste provided a noticeable whitening effect on teeth and was easier to use than strips. Despite my irregular usage, my teeth still feel thoroughly cleaned. And the lack of fluoride and peroxide is much appreciated."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 42,090 reviews on Amazon, it's clear that many people love this product.
2. Best PETA-Certified:Hello Oral Care Activated Charcoal Teeth Whitening Toothpaste
Say hello with confidence with the natural bamboo activated charcoal toothpaste by Hello Oral Care. It is specially formulated to whiten teeth and keep the enamel safe. The toothpaste is infused with other natural and beneficial ingredients such as tea tree oil, coconut oil, and xylitol. It is free of alcohol, artificial sweeteners, SLS, dyes, parabens, gluten, and microbeads. Plus, it also contains mint, which keeps your mouth fresh for hours. Before buying, have a look at this review video for more details
Pros
- Suitable for everyday use
- Safe for sensitive teeth
- PETA-certified
- Removes plaque and stain
Cons
- Some may not like the taste
- May not go well with chipped teeth
"The black color, initially off-putting, eases into a unique charm as you realize its effectiveness. The fluoride-free formula is a bonus. Getting to the last squeeze proves tricky with the wide cap design. Despite that small inconvenience, it's a staple in my oral care routine, and I recommend it wholeheartedly."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Join the 33,803 satisfied buyers on Amazon who have said the product meets their needs and expectations.
3. Best Gluten-Free:Crest Charcoal 3D White Toothpaste
Remove surface stains on your teeth and whiten your teeth with the gentle 3D White charcoal toothpaste by Crest. It is a remineralizing, scientifically formulated toothpaste with fluoride that effectively revitalizes weakened enamel to strengthen teeth. Its mint flavor leaves a long-lasting cooling effect and keeps your mouth fresh for a long time. This anti-cavity toothpaste with charcoal powder is formulated to ensure complete dental health.
Pros
- Gentle formula
- Can be used with electric toothbrush
- Mess-free solution
- Does not contain any gluten
Cons
- May not suit children less than six years
- May not suit sensitive gums
"This toothpaste left my breath fresh and made my teeth noticeably whiter. While the charcoal in it can feel abrasive for sensitive gums, its stain removal strength is quite impressive. Moreover, its minty taste is not overpowering, and the whitening effect is remarkable."
RememberWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 19,142 independent reviewers on Amazon have acknowledged the product's durability and functionality.
Cali White Activated Charcoal Teeth Whitening Toothpaste Best Vegan | Hello Oral Care Activated Charcoal Teeth Whitening Toothpaste Best PETA-Certified | Crest Charcoal 3D White Toothpaste Best Gluten-Free | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2 x 1.5 x 7 inches | 2.13 x 1.5 x 5.6 inches | 1.61 x 5.95 x 5.79 inches |
| Weight | 4 Ounces | 4 Ounces | 14.88 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 42,090 | 33,803 | 19,142 |
| Price | $12.49 | $5.97 | $15.45 |
4. Best Fluoride-Free:Dental Expert Activated Charcoal Teeth Whitening Toothpaste
Improve your dental hygiene with the activated charcoal and coconut toothpaste by Dental Expert. The scientifically formulated toothpaste comes as a part of a dental kit that comprises a toothbrush and a tongue cleaner for holistic dental care. The charcoal toothpaste also helps with other dental health issues. Moreover, this tried-and-tested formula is free of fluoride, SLS, triclosan, and peroxide and is a suitable sensitive teeth toothpaste. To know more about how the toothpaste works, check out this video
Pros
- Does not affect dental fillings
- Mint flavor
- Safe for inflamed gums
- Keeps mouth fresh all day long
Cons
- Quantity may not be sufficient
- Whitening may be a slow process
"This toothpaste has made my teeth significantly cleaner and also minimized plaque. It does tend to scatter when not used with care, but despite that minor hitch, I’m satisfied with my purchase as, within a few days, I saw my teeth appear brighter—a rewarding change."
5. Best Cruelty-Free:Tom’s Of Maine Activated Charcoal Whitening Toothpaste
The charcoal-activated organic toothpaste from Tom’s of Maine is a gentle formulation that whitens teeth by removing stains and helps restore the natural color of the teeth. It is an enamel-safe charcoal product scientifically formulated for everyday use and has a refreshing peppermint flavor. This tried-and-tested teeth whitening toothpaste contains natural, sustainable beneficial ingredients and comes in a pack of three 4.7oz tubes. Furthermore, the toothpaste is free of fluoride, paraben, SLS, artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. Replace your normal toothpaste with this cruelty-free toothpaste that soothes enamel layers and leaves you with whiter teeth and a beautiful smile.
Pros
- Made from naturally derived silica
- Fights tartar buildup with regular brushing
- Comes in a recyclable tube
- Certified by B Corp for sustainability
Cons
- May have a chemical taste
- May stain sinks upon usage
"I've been using Tom's fluoride-free toothpaste for years. Every time I switch, it's a regretful experience. So, I stick to Tom's. The charcoal variety has my affection lately - it transforms my teeth into a cleaner, shinier version. It's fun exploring all the flavors."
6. Best Dentist-Recommended:Sensodyne Natural White Charcoal Toothpaste
This stain-fighting toothpaste by Sensodyne is formulated with coconut-sourced charcoal that helps restore the natural whiteness of your teeth. This clinically tested formula also contains fluoride for cavity protection. It also strengthens the teeth and offers long-lasting protection from sensitivity and pain, allowing you to enjoy hot teas, coffees, ice creams, cold drinks, and sour candies without discomfort. Also, its refreshing, minty flavor keeps your mouth feeling fresh and clean for a long time.
Pros
- Dentist-recommended
- ADA-approved
- Pack of three
- Portable and easy-to-dispense tube
Cons
- May stain the sink
- Might take some time to show results
"I love this charcoal-infused toothpaste's efficacy in treating sensitive teeth, and its non-overpowering mint flavor is a bonus. While the black color of the toothpaste stains my basin at times, the positive results more than make up for it."
Point to consider7. Best SLS-Free:Davids Natural Whitening Charcoal Toothpaste
Known as an anti-plaque toothpaste, the Davids premium natural toothpaste has been formulated using naturally sourced ingredients to freshen your breath. This expert-recommended toothpaste’s key ingredients include baking soda, which improves oral hygiene by neutralizing acids, and premium mint oil, which leaves you with a fresh feel long after you have brushed your teeth with the toothpaste. Further, the vegan formulation is free of fluoride, SLS, and sulfate and comes packaged in a recyclable metal tube.
Pros
- Approved by ADA for safety
- Creamy and non-gritty texture
- Tube roller for squeezing contents
- Abrasive rating of 111 for daily use
Cons
- Excessive usage may lead to enamel damage
- Strong flavor may not suit children
"I've switched to this toothpaste in an attempt to revamp my personal care products. In just two weeks, my teeth appear brighter and whiter. Although the foam isn't much, it effectively removes coffee and tea stains, and the pleasing taste and the absence of fluoride are a plus."
8. Best For Stain Removal:Burt’s Bees Charcoal Toothpaste
Restore your teeth’s natural whiteness by brushing twice a day with this SLS- and paraben-free charcoal toothpaste from Burt’s Bees. This non-abrasive natural formula is free of plastic beads and won’t damage the enamel. Formulated with charcoal, this toothpaste gently removes surface stains from your teeth, while the peppermint flavor makes it a breath-freshening toothpaste, leaving your mouth feeling clean for hours. This is also a fluoride-free toothpaste without any artificial flavors and sweeteners, and the formula has not been tested on animals.
Pros
- Free of preservatives and dyes
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
- Pack of three
Cons
- Some may not like the taste
- May have a thin and runny consistency
"The natural toothpaste exceeded my expectations with its effectiveness. The odd color was off-putting, but its taste and the clean feeling post-brushing had me hooked. It also reduced plaque and did not irritate my gums. The best part is that even my dentist loves this toothpaste."
9. Best Sugar-Free:Colgate Total Whitening Charcoal Toothpaste
Colgate’s charcoal-containing toothpaste not only whitens your teeth but also offers up to ten benefits, including protection against cavities, plaque, tartar, and gingivitis. This scientifically formulated antibacterial toothpaste has a stannous fluoride-infused formula that provides sensitivity relief and also helps keep the mouth germs-free for over twelve hours. Additionally, this vegan toothpaste is sugar-free and has a mint flavor that leaves a clean and fresh feeling in the mouth.
Pros
- Removes surface stains
- Protects enamel
- Vegan formula
- Convenient packaging
Cons
- Might not be suitable for children below 12 years
- Might stain the sink
"The toothpaste has a strong, minty taste that felt too much the first time I used it, but the long-lasting freshness makes it all worth it. Besides the fresh breath, it also made my teeth whiter and gave me an exceptionally clean feeling."
10. Best Mint-Flavored:Essentials Blessing Organic Bamboo Charcoal Toothpaste
The natural bamboo charcoal toothpaste by Essentials Blessing is formulated to offer complete oral care for strong, healthy, and sparkling white teeth. This expert-recommended toothpaste has been specially formulated to whiten teeth and eliminate bad breath. Moreover, the natural toothpaste’s minty flavor keeps your mouth fresh even hours after you have brushed your teeth. The other natural ingredients found in the high-quality charcoal toothpaste include thyme oil, coconut oil, wheat germ oil, and cardamom.
Pros
- Charcoal sourced from coconut shells
- Traps and disperses toxins from mouth
- Does not contain any fluoride
- Fresh taste lingers for long after use
Cons
- Some may experience gum sensitivity
- May not suit sensitive teeth
"I love this flavored toothpaste. It has a delightful minty freshness, which leaves my mouth feeling impeccably clean. It's challenging to find an ideal toothpaste, balancing those qualities, but this one fits my needs perfectly."
11. Best Organic:Schmidt’s Wondermint With Activated Charcoal Toothpaste
Schmidt’s activated charcoal toothpaste is formulated with other organic ingredients, including aloe leaf juice, pomegranate extracts, goji etracts, vitamin E, and magnolia bark extract. All these active ingredients are known for providing visible results–whiter teeth. It is also an effective plaque- and tartar-control toothpaste. Use this cruelty-free and vegan toothpaste enriched with Wondermint for healthier teeth and fresh breath. The formulation is free of SLS, fluoride, and artificial flavors. Further, the toothpaste comes in a pack of two.
Pros
- Mint flavor has a natural feel
- Safe for those with asthma
- Gives visible results gradually
- Comes in an elegantly packed four-ounce tube
Cons
- May go hard on enamel
- May not have a solid consistency
"The teeth whitening power seemed questionable initially, but I have come to appreciate this charcoal toothpaste.I was pleasantly surprised when the plaque chipped away, and my dentist commended my dental health. Its taste is subtly sweet and quite refreshing. All in all, the buy has been worth it."
How To Choose The Right Charcoal Toothpaste?
Here are some points you should keep in mind while choosing a charcoal toothpaste.
- Sensitivity: It is recommended that you first speak to your doctor before using charcoal toothpaste if you have tooth sensitivity, as the abrasive nature of some charcoal toothpaste can worsen the condition.
- Flavor: Charcoal toothpastes usually contain essential oils to add flavors, but some whitening toothpastes depend on artificial flavors. Make sure you go through the list of ingredients to pick the one that suits your taste buds.
- Fluoride-free versus fluoride: Charcoal toothpastes are mostly free of fluoride, which may not work for everyone. Therefore, consult your dentist to know if fluoride is suitable for your oral care.
Dr. Farayi Shakespeare Moyana, a dental public health expert in Zimbabwe, says, “It is important to consult your dentist or hygienist on how often you should use a charcoal toothpaste so that you don’t totally miss out on fluoridated toothpastes. Brushing your teeth with a non-fluoridated toothpaste can make you more vulnerable to tooth decay.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should I use activated charcoal toothpaste?
Charcoal toothpastes are recommended to be used only once or twice a week.
2. Can activated charcoal toothpastes for teeth whitening be used by people wearing braces?
Yes, people wearing braces can brush their teeth with activated charcoal toothpaste. However, as charcoal is known for its abrasive nature, it must be used in moderation and should be used only with brushes that have soft bristles.
3. Is charcoal toothpaste safe?
Charcoal toothpaste is safe to use occasionally. However, it is not suitable for daily use due to its abrasive properties.
4. Does charcoal toothpaste whiten teeth?
Like other whitening kinds of toothpaste, charcoal toothpaste may not be effective in brightening or bleaching the teeth. Yet, charcoal toothpaste can help remove surface stains as charcoal has abrasive properties and the ability to remove stains from teeth (1).
5. Can children use activated charcoal toothpaste?
Charcoal toothpaste is not recommended for children due to the abrasive properties of charcoal. Some charcoal toothpastes may label the product as not suitable for children under six years of age (2).
6. Can I use activated charcoal toothpaste while pregnant?
The effectiveness of activated charcoal is not yet determined scientifically and is considered a safe ingredient. Using charcoal toothpaste during pregnancy may be safe. However, it is advisable to check with the healthcare provider before.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Vibha Navarathna, our in-house writer and reviewer, brings you this list of the best charcoal toothpastes after doing extensive research and considering trustworthy customer reviews for an unbiased opinion. Furthermore, she also tells you the benefits and drawbacks of charcoal toothpastes and gives you some pointers you should consider when choosing the right one to suit your needs.
If you are looking for a natural way to brighten and whiten your teeth, then activated charcoal toothpaste may be a good option to add to your oral hygiene routine. With this list of the best charcoal toothpastes, you can find the most suitable toothpaste that takes care of your tooth and gum health and leaves you feeling fresh. However, before choosing one, ensure you consult your dentist, and also, make sure you do not use it too frequently.
Infographic: How To Use Activated Charcoal Toothpaste Safely?
Charcoal has been one of the most popular toothpaste ingredients for decades. While it is safe, observing a few precautions when using activated charcoal toothpaste can be beneficial. Check out the following infographic for safety tips when using activated charcoal toothpaste.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Ingredient Investigator: Charcoal in Toothpaste
https://www.consumerreports.org/health/dental-oral-care/does-charcoal-toothpaste-work-a7477277301/ - Should My Kids Use a ‘Natural’ Toothpaste?
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/should-my-kids-use-a-natural-toothpaste/ - Charcoal Teeth Whitening is Popular On Social Media. But What Do Dentists Think?
https://www.mpdg.com/charcoal-teeth-whitening-dangers/#:~:text=The%20main%20danger%20with%20using,the%20tooth%2C%20called%20the%20enamel
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