Yeah, charcoal can be tricky—I remember a patient who got really into charcoal toothpaste and ended up with some sensitivity issues. Baking soda's gentler for sure, but like you said, moderation matters. Checking with your dentist is a smart move...better safe than sorry, right?
Totally agree, charcoal can be harsh if you're not careful. Baking soda's usually safer—just make sure you're gentle and don't scrub too hard. And honestly, pairing it with a fluoride toothpaste afterward helps protect enamel and keeps sensitivity at bay.
I've been using baking soda occasionally too, and it's definitely gentler than charcoal. But I noticed that even with gentle brushing, my gums sometimes feel a bit sensitive afterward. Maybe I'm still pressing too hard? Also, does anyone know if using baking soda regularly can affect dental fillings or crowns? I've heard mixed things about that and don't wanna risk damaging any dental work...
I've noticed the same thing with baking soda—my gums get a bit tender too, even when I'm careful. Maybe it's just naturally abrasive? Not sure about fillings, but my dentist mentioned moderation's key with anything abrasive, so probably best not to overdo it...
"Maybe it's just naturally abrasive? Not sure about fillings, but my dentist mentioned moderation's key with anything abrasive, so probably best not to overdo it..."
That's spot on advice. I've had a few patients who went all-in on baking soda toothpaste, thinking it was the gentlest option out there. One guy in particular stands out—he came in complaining about tooth sensitivity and gum irritation out of nowhere. Turns out he'd been brushing vigorously twice daily with pure baking soda, convinced it was the ultimate whitening hack. After we switched him back to a gentler toothpaste and gave his gums some time to recover, things improved dramatically.
Activated charcoal isn't much better, honestly. It can be pretty harsh too, especially if you brush aggressively or use it too often. Both baking soda and charcoal might give a quick brightness boost initially, but long-term use can definitely cause enamel wear and gum issues. Moderation's key, like your dentist said—and if you're looking for safer whitening options, professional treatments or ADA-approved whitening toothpastes are usually a better bet.
