Black for white: 5 reasons why charcoal is good for teeth

MANILA, Philippines — Many Filipinos still use charcoal at home for cooking, while others use it for reducing odor. Raw charcoal used for barbecuing is loaded with poisonous chemicals, but once stripped off its toxins, it becomes activated charcoal, which offers a slew of medicinal benefits known since ancient Egyptians’ time.

According to the American Food and Drug Administration, activated charcoal has been rated Category 1 for safety and effectiveness. The US homeopathic pharmacopoeia reportedly affirms its power to absorb bacteria and gas produced by gas-producing food like beans. It also reportedly prevents bloating, hangovers, alcohol poisoning, molds and discomfort from insect or snake bites, among others.

Lately, consumers have started to see charcoal in skincare products and other personal care goods. But activated charcoal’s number one benefit is what it can do to one’s teeth.

According to the Department of Health, February is not only Philippine Heart Month but also Oral Health Month. Here are ways how activated charcoal can improve one’s smile.

1. Activated charcoal is an inexpensive and an all-natural dental solution. It is available in capsule, tablet or powder form from reputable independent retailers. Make sure to choose the food-grade ones to avoid accidental poisoning.

This versatile and useful ingredient is also found in several products of Colgate-Palmolive. Palmolive Naturals Flawless Clean Beauty Soap is said to be the first charcoal-infused soap in the country, while Palmolive and Colgate Slimsoft Charcoal Toothbrush is said to be among the first toothbrushes that use this ingredient. Charcoal is also found in Colgate Total Charcoal Deep Clean Toothpaste, Colgate Fresh Confidence Bamboo Charcoal Toothpaste, Colgate Plax Bamboo Charcoal-Mint Mouthwash and Gard Active Clean Shampoo.

2. Activated charcoal whitens teeth by absorbing microscopic tidbits and plaque that stain teeth.

3. It helps prevent bad breath, cavities and gum disease by changing the pH balance in the mouth.

4. It lightens stains caused by tea, coffee, berries and wine. Activated charcoal, however, can stain fabrics and grout, as well as tooth crowns, porcelain veneers and caps. It can possibly also make teeth sensitive.

5. For best results, for two to three times a week, brush your teeth with activated charcoal by wetting your toothbrush and dipping it into a powdered activated charcoal. Brush your teeth as usual, but pay more attention to areas with the most stains. Rinse well with water.

Besides activated charcoal, it pays to take care of one’s smile by:

1. Gently brushing teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush for two minutes two times a day.

2. Flossing all sides of the teeth after brushing.

3. Eating calcium-rich food that promotes stronger teeth.

4. Avoiding high-sugar drinks that stain and destroy teeth.

5. Visiting your dentist for a check-up every five to six months.

As Miguel de Cervantes said in his 1605 opus, “Don Quixote,” “Every tooth in a man’s head is more valuable than a diamond.”