A: No, it does not. Opalescence Go contains hydrogen peroxide, potassium nitrate and fluoride. Each of these ingredients is a well recognized and effective whitening agent, unlike charcoal, which has not proven to be an effective whitening agent. There is evidence that suggests charcoal can harm tooth enamel, which poses a risk to the overall health of teeth. Opalescence Go is a safer and more effective option in comparison to charcoal. As long as it is used as directed, Opalescence Go is completely safe.