Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a common item in most households, and many people want to ask their family dentist if this ingredient is as good for brushing teeth as so many people claim it is. It is possible to find baking soda as an ingredient in over-the-counter toothpaste, but what about using it on its own? Here are a few frequently asked questions regarding using this popular ingredient on those pearly whites.
Baking soda FAQs
Can brushing with baking soda whiten teeth?
Yes it can, because an alkaline solution is made when baking soda mixes with water. This leads to the release of free radicals, which help to break up plaque on the teeth and surface stains. In addition, for anyone experiencing mouth ulcers, baking soda is an effective treatment. It also assists in freshening bad breath by neutralizing acids from leftover food particles.
Does brushing with baking soda damage teeth?
Brushing once a day with baking soda or on occasion will not damage the teeth. However, brushing too hard or too often with it can lead to damaged tooth enamel. Some people also mix the baking soda with lemon juice, strawberries or other ingredients to clean the teeth. While this can be effective on occasion, a family dentist is likely to recommend doing this sparingly to avoid damaging the teeth.
What does it feel and taste like to brush with baking soda?
The feel of brushing with baking soda can be surprising for first-timers. If used with just water, it will be quite gritty and leave an unappealing aftertaste. Some people combat this by mixing it with toothpaste or other flavors, such as peppermint. Some additions, such as vinegar, may add to the unappealing taste left in the mouth. Be aware that the experience may not be pleasant, but it is possible to mix it with other ingredients to make it feel better and taste better in the mouth.
Is it better to use baking soda rather than toothpaste?
It is a good idea to use toothpaste regularly because baking soda alone does not have the ability to fight cavities. In addition, overuse of baking soda could damage the teeth. While conscious and careful use of baking soda can be beneficial, it is not a permanent replacement for a good toothpaste.
How often is it OK to use baking soda to brush teeth?
The Journal of the American Dental Association states that baking soda is safe for daily use. It is a good idea to only use baking soda to brush the teeth once per day. Use a good fluoride toothpaste to brush teeth the rest of the time.
Conclusion
Baking soda is an effective teeth whitener when used appropriately to brush the teeth. Keep in mind that it is also important to maintain regular dental visits and continue using a good toothpaste with any baking soda brushing routine. For the best results, consult with a family dentist to find out the best uses for baking soda when brushing teeth.
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FAQs
While baking soda can't protect your teeth from cavities as effectively as a fluoride toothpaste can, it's still considered a good cleaning agent for your teeth. Toothpastes containing baking soda have been shown to have antibacterial properties, which can help protect your teeth from decay.
What are the disadvantages of baking soda toothpaste? ›
While a little baking soda can wear away surface stains, the abrasive nature of the compound eventually wears away the enamel on your teeth, which makes them appear yellow and discolored. The abrasive texture can also irritate the gums. The alkaline chemical makeup can disrupt the delicate pH balance in your mouth.
What are the side effects of brushing your teeth with baking soda? ›
It is slightly abrasive and if used repeatedly over time it can weaken tooth enamel, making your teeth more sensitive and vulnerable to dental cavities. Baking soda on its own does not kill the bacteria in the mouth that cause cavities and tooth decay.
How often should I use baking soda to brush my teeth? ›
Baking soda will generally need to be used correctly in order to protect the teeth's enamel from damages. The soda should ideally not be used too frequently since it can damage the enamel as a result of frequent use. It should generally only be used about once per a week and for two minutes at a time.
Is baking soda good for receding gums? ›
That lonely little box of baking soda receding gums is the key to completely (and cheaply) transforming your at-home dental health regimen. Just make a paste of salt water and soda and give your teeth a punch of strength.
Can brushing teeth with baking soda raise blood pressure? ›
High blood pressure: Sodium bicarbonate might increase blood pressure. People who already have high blood pressure should avoid sodium bicarbonate. Low potassium levels in the blood: Sodium bicarbonate might lower potassium blood levels.
Why do dentist not recommend baking soda? ›
The same extremely abrasive properties that make baking soda effective against plaque also make it dangerous. Consistent use can damage teeth by eroding the protective layer of enamel.
Why do my gums hurt after brushing with baking soda? ›
Some women may have an allergy to baking soda. As a result, a rash may appear on the palate, tongue, lips, and gums. Burning, itching, or pain may occur due to irritation of the mucous membrane. Bleeding gums are not uncommon also.
What happens if you mix baking soda with toothpaste? ›
Dental care experts often recommend people to mix soda with regular fluoride toothpaste. The simple home remedy is also recommended for patients who use chlorhexidine mouth rinses as a part of treatment for oral health issues. Baking soda helps in quickly getting rid of stains left on teeth due to chlorhexidine.
Can yellow teeth become white? ›
Yellow teeth can regain whiteness through various methods, including good oral hygiene, professional dental cleanings, and teeth-whitening treatments. Stains from coffee, tea, or tobacco can be removed with adequate oral care, while professional procedures like bleaching or laser treatments offer quicker results.
Does brushing with baking soda damage teeth? Brushing once a day with baking soda or on occasion will not damage the teeth. However, brushing too hard or too often with it can lead to damaged tooth enamel. Some people also mix the baking soda with lemon juice, strawberries or other ingredients to clean the teeth.
What to do after brushing teeth with baking soda? ›
Do not scrub too hard or use too much force. After two minutes, spit out the baking soda and rinse your mouth thoroughly with water or mouthwash. Rinse your toothbrush as well.
Is it OK to brush your teeth with straight baking soda? ›
Baking soda toothpaste is a safe and effective way to clean and whiten teeth. However, brushing with baking soda alone is not approved by the ADA because baking soda lacks fluoride, an essential cavity-fighting ingredient. An alternative is to purchase a commercial toothpaste that includes baking soda and fluoride.
Is baking soda the same thing as bicarbonate of soda? ›
You may wonder about bicarbonate of soda vs. baking soda, but they are simply alternate terms for the same ingredient. If your recipe calls for bicarbonate of soda, it is simply referring to baking soda. Baking soda is a quick-acting leavening agent.
Does baking soda actually whiten teeth? ›
But because baking soda removes discoloration from the surface of your teeth, it's important to keep in mind that it won't remove deeper stains. If a toothpaste containing baking soda doesn't whiten your teeth as much as you'd like, consider scheduling an appointment with a dentist or dental hygienist.
How long does it take for baking soda to whiten teeth? ›
But, how long the baking soda takes to work depends on the severity of the stains. Generally, it takes about two weeks of daily use before you start seeing results. If you're looking for a quick fix, other options are available, such as professional teeth whitening in the Colony, TX, or take-home kits.
What does baking soda do to your teeth? ›
Reduces Acidity and Plaque
As such, baking soda not only prevents tooth decay but also helps remineralize your enamel. Baking soda can also limit plaque buildup by neutralizing plaque acids. Many kinds of toothpaste contain baking soda to help clean teeth more effectively and protect against plaque.
How to get whiter teeth naturally? ›
Seven Ways to Naturally Whiten Teeth
- Eat Strawberries. One of the simplest ways to naturally whiten your teeth is just by eating strawberries. ...
- Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables. ...
- Brush After You Eat or Drink. ...
- Rinse with Apple Cider Vinegar. ...
- Apply Coconut Oil. ...
- Brush Your Tongue. ...
- Use Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide.
Baking soda can prevent and treat tartar buildup on your teeth. Also called sodium bicarbonate, it helps by softening tartar. It also balances the acids in your mouth that create plaque and stop it from turning into tartar. As it is mildly abrasive, it's an effective option to scrub away stains and whiten your teeth.
