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
It works to help clean teeth. According to the Journal of Clinical Dentistry (June 2008), brushing teeth with baking soda products was proven more effective than using products without baking soda. It's inexpensive. If you use just baking soda, a box will last you for a long time and costs less than $1.
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 you brush your teeth with baking soda and water? ›
It cannot be used every day. At most a family dentist would recommend using it twice a week. Since there are toothpastes available which contain baking soda, seeking out one of these products is a compromise which allows teeth to get the benefits of sodium bicarbonate daily.
Does baking soda help with 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.
What are the disadvantages of baking soda on your teeth? ›
The Disadvantages And Risks Of Using Baking Soda
It can damage the enamel which may cause the teeth to become more sensitive than they should be to hot or cold temperatures, and it can also make brushing your teeth by itself painful. Damage to the enamel can also make the teeth more likely to attract cavities.
How long does it take for baking soda to clean your 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.
Should I brush my teeth with baking soda before or after toothpaste? ›
You must use baking soda properly to have an effective result on teeth whiteness. Before brushing your teeth, add a pinch of baking soda powder on the toothpaste. Then brush your teeth normally. Some dentists recommend brushing with regular toothpaste and then continuing brushing with baking soda.
Can baking soda remove tartar? ›
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.
Does brushing with baking soda Remineralize teeth? ›
Remineralization is the process of restoring essential minerals, like calcium and phosphate, back into our tooth enamel. While baking soda is effective for removing plaque and neutralizing acids in our mouths, it doesn't provide the minerals necessary for the remineralization process.
Should you rinse your mouth after using baking soda? ›
To whiten your teeth with baking soda, mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 3 to 4 drops of lemon juice and make it into a fine paste. Gently brush your teeth with this paste and leave it on your teeth for 2 minutes. Thoroughly rinse your mouth afterward. Do not use this paste more than twice a week.
After two minutes, spit out the baking soda and rinse your mouth thoroughly with water or mouthwash. Rinse your toothbrush as well.
How to get super white teeth? ›
For your benefit, we've provided you with seven different ways to naturally whiten your teeth.
- Eat 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.
The simple answer is, no. If your gums are damaged by, for example periodontitis, the most severe form of gum disease, it's not possible for receding gums to grow back. However, even though receding gums can't be reversed there are treatments that can help to stop the problem from getting worse.
Can baking soda whiten teeth? ›
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.
Is it okay to brush your teeth with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide? ›
For deeper cleaning, people safely can mix baking soda with a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to create a toothpaste. However, since hydrogen peroxide can sting, people with sensitive teeth and gums should discontinue using this paste if they experience pain or discomfort.
Can baking soda remove plaque? ›
Does baking soda remove plaque from teeth? This is a question we're often asked and the short answer is yes, it does! Baking soda neutralizes acid and helps kill bacteria. Put a small amount of baking soda on your toothbrush (around a tablespoon is fine), and then wet the toothbrush.
Is brushing without toothpaste effective? ›
Plaque is the most common cause of tooth decay, so regular brushing is absolutely necessary to remove it. But, toothpaste isn't necessary to remove plaque. The bristles of your toothbrush alone can disrupt the bacteria. So, even if you dry brush your teeth regularly, you can prevent tooth decay effectively.
What happens if you brush your teeth with baking soda and lemon? ›
Baking soda is abrasive and lemon juice is acidic. Together they form a destructive duo that corrodes tooth enamel. This will undoubtedly remove surface stains, but it will also damage the protective layer of your teeth in the process. Enamel is there to defend your teeth and once it's gone, it's gone forever.
