Activated charcoal is a porous ingredient used in some toothpastes. Its presence alone does not prove that a product whitens teeth or removes toxins. The effect and suitability depend on the finished formula; follow the product instructions.

Coconut oil is used for oil pulling. There is insufficient reliable evidence that this practice prevents cavities or whitens teeth. It does not replace brushing with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between teeth or dental care.

Tea tree oil is an essential oil. Use only finished products intended for oral care, following their labels; do not use the undiluted oil in your mouth or swallow it. Do not rely on it to treat bleeding gums.

Bentonite is a mineral ingredient. Its presence in a formula does not establish that the product removes heavy metals, detoxifies the mouth or remineralizes teeth. Follow the instructions for the finished product; it is not a treatment for dental disease.

Diatomaceous earth is a mineral ingredient used in some cleaning formulations. Do not rely on it to remove hardened tartar or treat gum disease. Tartar and persistent gum symptoms should be assessed by a dental professional.

Aloe vera is an ingredient used in some oral-care formulations. It should not be presented as equivalent to fluoride toothpaste or as a replacement for proven cavity prevention. Choose daily oral care with guidance from your dentist.

Wintergreen essential oil is concentrated and can be harmful if misused. Do not apply undiluted essential oil directly to a toothbrush or swallow it. Use only finished products intended for oral care, following their label instructions.

Sodium bicarbonate is used in some toothpaste formulas as a cleaning ingredient. The finished formula determines the product's properties; the ingredient alone does not guarantee whitening or protection against acid erosion. Follow the product instructions.