No Laughing Matter: Is Charcoal Toothpaste Safe?

We asked an actual dentist. Ah, activated charcoal - the new ‘it girl’ in the world of beauty hacks (move over, coconut oil). Known for its ability to absorb impurities, activated charcoal is often used in water filtration systems and to treat drug overdoses and food poisoning. INTENSE. When integrated into toothpaste, the same purifying concept should apply, removing the stubborn stains keeping you from achieving the sparkling smile of your dreams. But is charcoal bad for your teeth?   I began my quest for answers the way I always do when facing tough life questions - ask my dad. 33 years as a dentist make him a uniquely qualified source, so I lured him out of retirement for one last lesson in oral hygiene.   

The most important thing, he says, is that you’re brushing (and flossing!) regularly. Deciding which toothpaste is right for you is a personal choice. Just like we all have different skin types and, therefore, different skincare needs, our teeth and gums have varying needs as well. Kiddos, whose tooth enamel is still soft and vulnerable, and those with certain dental sensitivities might find charcoal toothpaste too abrasive. But overall, dear old Dad says it’s “safe and effective.” And the FDA agrees.   As for its whitening effect? It’s difficult to actually whiten teeth with any toothpaste, but charcoal toothpaste can help to remove surface stains. Anything deeper, however, is going to require some professional assistance. So, if you’ve got stubborn, set-in coffee stains or naturally yellow teeth, your best bet is to book an in-office whitening session. But if you’re looking for an at-home fix, go ahead and give charcoal toothpaste a try - or, check out some other creative ways to whiten your smile.  Just remember, when it comes to gums, the most important thing is daily brushing with a gentle toothbrush and routine visits to your dental health professional.

Whiter Teeth in 6 Days: issa™ Teeth Whitening Set Pre-order

16-31 July

A genuine, healthy smile has real social implications. People will subjectively perceive you as more attractive, friendly, confident, youthful, authoritative, and healthy if you have white teeth, regardless of the objective reality. issa™ Teeth Whitening Set was designed exactly for this: to improve your life, socially and professionally. 

The issa™ Teeth Whitening Set finally gives the world a reason to smile on July 31st, 2026, as the world's 1st sonic teeth-whitening system launches globally. The beauty-tech giant, FOREO, is offering a unique opportunity to pre-order the set from 16-31 July and get a GIFT- an extra issa™ advanced teeth-whitening gel pack, completely free. 

It is a thank you for believing in a world where whitening products don't need to make you trade pain and hyper-sensitivity for results. The set features a teeth-whitening device with blue and red LEDs for whitening and gum care, respectively, and an LED-activated peroxide-free 18% PAP gel for up to 10 shades whiter teeth in just 6 days. Go find out more, and we hope you have a reason to smile today. 

PRE-ORDER issa™ SET