This $10 activated-charcoal toothpaste has over 24,000 fans — here's what a dentist thinks

Are your teeth looking a little worse for wear these days? If whitening strips are not your thing — some folks find them irritating, and others just aren't into bleach — we've got some good news, and a great sale. Cali White Activated Charcoal and Organic Coconut Oil Toothpaste is a top-rated bestseller on Amazon, with over 24,000 five-star reviews, and it's down to just $10. Billed as "Nature’s whitening toothpaste," it's dentist-approved for brightening chompers. Surprising it doesn't contain fluoride or peroxide. Instead, it boasts activated charcoal, a natural cleanser.

Cali White

Cali White Natural Activated Charcoal Whitening Toothpaste

$10$12Save $2

This chemical-free whitening toothpaste binds to stains and eliminates plaque like a pro.

$10 at Amazon

One former skeptic said of Cali White, “It’s actually incredible. I have noticed a huge difference in how white my teeth are now. I’m a heavy smoker, so this is definitely a game-changer.” Another pointed out that despite its dark color, it “rinses off well” and works as expected.

Other reviewers add that unlike peroxide-laden whitening toothpastes, this one doesn’t sensitize teeth but still provides a refreshing effect. One wrote, “My teeth do look whiter and I am experiencing no sensitivity. Flavor is pleasant, too. And it doesn’t stain my sink or toothbrush — two things I had been concerned about.”

So, what’s the deal with activated charcoal?

New York City-based cosmetic dentist Brian Kantor tells Yahoo Lifestyle that he would recommend activated charcoal for removing surface stains, but notes that fluoride is a must to prevent dental decay. “Activated charcoal can be used as a supplement to brushing with regular toothpaste for people who are seeking a whiter smile through the removal of surface stains,” he explains. “But it is necessary to also make sure the toothpaste includes fluoride.”

What about coconut oil?

One reviewer said they were hesitant to try a product with oil due to a bad experience with "oil pulling" (an ancient Ayurvedic dental practice that involves swishing oil around in your mouth) and fear of the carbon’s gritty texture. “I’ve tried oil pulling … I just can’t do it,” they wrote. “I was worried this toothpaste would have a similar consistency to plain coconut oil and the charcoal would be gritty. Nope to both. Smooth consistency, zero grit, and tastes great! My 6- and 8-year-old kids love it, too! I noticed my teeth were whiter after the first use!”

When it comes to coconut oil, Dr. Kantor explains, “Oil pulling has shown to reduce inflammation by combining the fat-soluble toxins found in the mouth — a byproduct of bacterial dental plaque — with coconut oil.” In this case, coconut oil results in fresher breath, whiter teeth and reduced gum inflammation.

Bottom line

If you’re on the fence, Kantor adds, “Like with any material with abrasive properties, you have to be aware of the potential effects on the gums and enamel on the teeth.”

One happy customer wrote: “I love a good cup of coffee and really love a good glass of red wine. I’ve used every product out there and had great results with many, but nothing like this. My teeth aren’t just whiter, they also feel dentist-clean every time I brush and [this] keeps my mouth feeling clean throughout the day. I will never use anything else again.”

Another added, “Overall, I would recommend this product to anyone who is looking to whiten their teeth without using whitening strips or other methods.”

Cali White

Cali White Natural Activated Charcoal Whitening Toothpaste

$10$12Save $2

This chemical-free whitening toothpaste binds to stains and eliminates plaque like a pro.

$10 at Amazon

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

If you have Amazon Prime, you’ll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $25 or more.)

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