Activated charcoal is widely used in the world of wellness, cosmetics and oral care. It is a fine powder that can be made from a variety of raw materials such as wood, coconut shells, and other natural ingredients that oxidize under extreme heat. This means that the raw material for activated charcoal can be a number of different substances. Our activated charcoal is made from coconuts.

These coconut shells are heated up to very high temperatures (up to 1000 degrees celsius). After the heating process is concluded the powdered residue is crunched into particles that are suitable for oral care products. The size of the particles are important because this will eventually determine the level of abrasivity in oral care products. The goal of this production process is to increase the surface porosity of each activated charcoal particle. This enables each particle to act as a super effective mini sponge. These tiny holes have the ability to bind to other substances, which helps to eliminate bad odours, and adhere to materials that lay on the surface of your teeth, to help your teeth stay naturally white.

Our Happy Tabs Mint+Charcoal are a combination of natural ''regular toothpaste ingredients'' which you need to properly clean your teeth and gums. In addition, to our base formula we have added activated charcoal (derived from coconuts) to help to keep your teeth naturally white. No more messing around with loose powder, we are keeping it neat and simple and compressed it all in a neat little tab.

Please note that whenever you do purchase 100% pure charcoal powder products, you need to take into consideration that these products are not meant for everyday use. Some studies suggest that 100% pure charcoal powder formula can be too abrasive for your teeth enamel. Therefore it is advised to use 100% pure activated charcoal, just a couple of times per week,  2 to 3 times a week would be a good rule of thumb.

First let's separate myths from facts, as there are many stories going around the web about all the benefits of charcoal in oral care products, and a wide variety of claims. 

First things first, charcoal as an ingredient can help to remove surface stains on your teeth. At the right concentrations activated charcoal is mildly abrasive and able to rub off surface stains that might be caused by a variety of foods and drinks for example coffee or red wine. So in a nutshell, activated charcoal can remove surface stains but it cannot remove stains that are inside your tooth enamel. So if you have stains or discolouration inside your teeth enamel we advise you to book an appointment with your dentist for a consultation.

Well this really depends on whether you use 100% pure activated charcoal powder or a formula that contains activated charcoal amongst other ingredients. If 100% pure activated charcoal is used, it is advised to use it as a supplement to your regular oral care regime. However, if you choose a formula that contains activated charcoal amongst other ingredients, such as Happy Tabs Mint+Charcoal it's perfectly safe for daily usage.

Our Happy Tabs Mint+Charcoal are fluoride free. If you wish you to brush with fluoride we suggest you have a look at our Happy Tabs Fresh Mint version, which does contain fluoride.

It's safe to use activated charcoal on veneers, crowns and fillings. However, we must add that it is not guaranteed that it has the same effectiveness in removing surface stains compared to the natural parts of your teeth.