Why Use a Charcoal Toothbrush?

If you're looking at eco-friendly toothbrushes, such as brushes made from wood, then you may have noticed that some of these products also come with charcoal bristles. The bristles here are usually infused with a type of charcoal, so they may look grey or even black. They are often marketed as having additional cleaning benefits over traditional bristles.

Are there any benefits to using a toothbrush with charcoal bristles?

Stain-busting Properties

Some people find that using a toothbrush with bristles that contain charcoal helps keep their teeth whiter. This can happen for a couple of reasons. For example, charcoal is naturally absorbent. This absorbency may attract stain-producing substances off your teeth and gums and on to the bristles themselves. The bristles may suck up some of the substances and get them out of your mouth. If a toothbrush can do this, then you may reduce the number of stains that set on your teeth in the first place.

The charcoal in the bristles may also work as an abrasive, helping clean off minor stains and discolouration. Left alone, these stains might otherwise set and build up on your teeth and become more difficult to eradicate over time.

Anti-bacterial Advantages

Charcoal toothbrush bristles may also have some anti-bacterial benefits. As well as removing bacteria from your mouth through absorption, charcoal may neutralise some bacteria, oral fungus and microbes. It also has some anti-inflammatory properties. If you can remove or neutralise these problems in your mouth, then it may stay in a healthier state. For example, your teeth and gums may get better protection against the bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease.

Also, if you have problems with bad breath, then you may find that charcoal-infused bristles freshen up your breath after brushing for longer than regular bristles. If your toothbrush can remove or neutralise the bacteria that make your breath smell nasty, then your bad breath may improve or even clear up.

Other Things to Consider

While a charcoal-infused toothbrush may become a useful part of your teeth-cleaning routine, you shouldn't expect too much from the brush. You may find that it helps keep your mouth cleaner and healthier than a regular brush, but it may not fix any existing problems you have. For example, this kind of brush may not do much to whiten your teeth if you have existing entrenched stains; it may not clear up bad breath problems that come from hidden decay or gum problems. If you aren't sure if this kind of brush will help, ask your dentist for advice.

To learn more, contact your local family dentist.