If you follow DIY dentistry trends, you’ve likely heard of activated charcoal. It’s gotten pretty popular on social media sites as a cheap way to brighten your smile. Still, you should learn whether the stuff is safe for teeth whitening before you try it; you’ll hurt your grin otherwise. The good news is that your Indianapolis dentist can address that question directly. So, here’s a primer on activated charcoal, its oral health risks, and why you should get pro teeth whitening instead.

It’s easy to think of treatments like teeth whitening as a modern phenomenon. But would you be surprised to learn that people have been wanting brighter smiles for over 4,000 years? That’s right – even ancient Egyptians saw pristine teeth as a symbol of wealth and status. Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry today is less expensive, and less…well, you’ll see! Keep reading to learn more about teeth whitening treatments then and now.