I totally get the desire for a brighter smile without resorting to harsh whitening strips and pastes. This charcoal-infused toothpaste recipe offers a gentler approach to achieving that.
While those ads featuring dazzling smiles can be appealing, my family steers clear of artificial whitening solutions. Chemical whiteners are known to cause issues like sensitivity, gum irritation, and even permanent enamel damage. Plus, scientists still aren’t fully aware of how tooth bleaching works or its long-term effects.
Many at-home whitening treatments use hydrogen peroxide to tackle stains and discoloration, but research indicates this might not be the best choice for dental health. Studies reveal that hydrogen peroxide can harm dentin, the layer beneath tooth enamel, potentially leading to weaker teeth and increased decay.
Something approved by the American Dental Association (ADA) doesn’t automatically ensure it’s safe, such as fluoride, for instance.
I’m really into oral health and its overall impact on our bodies. Over the years, I’ve developed natural toothpaste and oral care products to be safe for my kids and suitable for my health concerns, while also fighting bad breath and providing mild whitening.
I’ve played around with various natural whitening agents, including turmeric, aiming for a homemade toothpaste that’s effective and less messy. Although there are many excellent natural toothpastes available, I’ve stuck with this DIY recipe for years because it’s affordable and effective—especially paired with oil pulling.
Some of my top recipes often spark questions about ingredient substitutions and necessity. A recurring issue is that toothpaste made with coconut oil can be too firm when cold. This whitening toothpaste, however, is straightforward and uses only the most beneficial ingredients, maintaining the same consistency at any temperature. It tastes good, too—my kids even like it, and I don’t worry if they swallow a bit.
Natural toothpaste isn’t as sweet as conventional options and lacks the foaming action. This particular recipe doesn’t have baking soda, so it avoids the salty taste of some natural varieties. I enhance the flavor with a blend of essential oils, which also offer antimicrobial benefits for oral health.
It’s essential to choose safe essential oils, as some aren’t suitable for children or oral use. Oils like cinnamon and peppermint should be used sparingly, while those like orange are milder. My kids enjoy grapefruit and lemon flavors, which not only taste great but also support mouth health.
Calcium and MCT oil are effective for whitening on their own, but adding activated charcoal can enhance the results. Initially skeptical, I’ve grown fond of charcoal for its ability to remove surface stains from coffee and tea. Research suggests it’s safe to use even with fillings and veneers and doesn’t strip minerals from the teeth. Charcoal also helps balance mouth pH to prevent cavities and gingivitis.
Before opting for homemade toothpaste with dental work, it’s a good idea to consult a dentist.
When sweetening meals, I stick to natural options like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar. I’m cautious with sweeteners like xylitol in toothpaste, even though it benefits oral health by reducing plaque and cavities. However, xylitol can be lethal to dogs, so keep toothpaste out of their reach.
I found that blending xylitol made it less coarse for toothpaste use. The first batch was a bit tricky to clean from the blender, but with a quick wipe and wash, it was good as new.
The secret ingredient for this recipe is medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, derived from coconut or palm oil. It remains liquid at various temperatures, making it user-friendly. Although fractionated coconut oil is similar, it’s often for skincare and not food-safe.
Each family member gets their own toothpaste jar, which avoids bacteria transfer and allows for personal flavor preference. We dip our toothbrushes directly into the jar, though a clean popsicle stick works too, keeping the toothpaste hygienic. Essential oils offer additional preservative qualities.
I typically make small batches since homemade toothpaste doesn’t last as long as store-bought options. If your family is smaller, you can halve the recipe. Discard any toothpaste that develops an off smell or color. Shelf life varies but usually spans several weeks. If jars aren’t your thing, consider using a squeeze tube instead.
Have you tried natural teeth whitening methods? What has worked for you? Share your experiences!
