Teeth whitening has become a popular choice for those looking for a brighter smile. Products made from charcoal have drawn the most attention among various techniques. But the actual question is: Are activated charcoal and white charcoal the same? More significantly, which is better for teeth-whitening? Let’s investigate these queries and find the correct answers.
What is Activated Charcoal?
Activated charcoal is a type of carbon with small, low-volume pores, increasing the available surface area for adsorption.
Coal, peat, or coconut shells frequently make this kind of charcoal.
People have used it in medicine for millennia to treat poisonings because of its great absorption qualities.
Uses in Oral Care
In recent years, companies have advertised activated charcoal for its power to whiten teeth.
Its porous texture makes it a popular ingredient in toothpaste and other oral care products because people believe it helps bind plaque and small particles that discolour teeth.
What is White Charcoal?
White charcoal, sometimes called binchotan or binchō-zumi, is a form of activated charcoal created in Japan.
It is tougher and denser than black activated charcoal since it is made at lower temperatures for a longer duration of time.
White charcoal has distinct qualities as a result of its unique production process.
Uses in Oral Care
White charcoal is less popular in the Western market, although it is used in the same way as activated charcoal for tooth whitening and breath refreshing.
Activated Charcoal Vs. White Charcoal
- Production Processes
Manufacturers heat carbon-rich materials to very high temperatures to make activated charcoal.
On the other hand, they produce white charcoal using lower temperatures and often employ a drawn-out, conventional method.
- Chemical Composition
Although both kinds consist primarily of carbon, the processing methods modify their chemical structures and properties.
White charcoal is typically denser and purer.
- Porosity and Absorbency Levels
Activated charcoal has a very porous surface, which increases its absorption capacity.
White charcoal has a smoother, firmer texture, even though it is still porous.
Which is Better for Teeth Whitening?
- Comparative Analysis: Activated charcoal is well-known and readily available, making it a popular choice. Though not as common, white charcoal is valued for its mild, less abrasive qualities.
- Efficiency: Both varieties can efficiently remove surface stains; however, activated charcoal may work more quickly due to its higher porosity.
- Safety: White charcoal may be more suitable for long-term use because it is less abrasive, lowering the risk of enamel erosion.
Activated Charcoal for Teeth Whitening
How it Works:
Activated charcoal binds to tooth stains like coffee, alcohol, and plaque and removes them by adsorption.
Advantages
- Efficient in getting rid of surface stains
- Chemical-free and natural
Potential Side Effects
- Abrasive materials can erode away enamel and produce dental sensitivity.
- Black residues can be messy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both activated charcoal and white charcoal remove surface stains, activated charcoal is the better alternative for teeth whitening due to its increased porosity and wider availability.
Despite the risk of enamel abrasion and dental irritation, its ability to remove stains quickly makes it a popular and natural choice.
Use activated charcoal with caution and consult a dentist to avoid enamel erosion and other tooth problems.
Also Read:
Understanding teeth Whitening & Other Beauty product
