Baking soda has been used for a variety of purposes throughout the centuries for health and household uses. It has been used as an alternative for traditional over the counter toothpaste to brush teeth, to help freshen, clean and brighten laundry, as a cleaning tool to unclog a drain when mixed with vinegar, and in many food recipes since it is safe to digest. Many people think of baking soda as a “do-all” product since it can be used in virtually every room in the house for different reasons.
Brushing your teeth with baking soda
What do studies say about brushing with baking soda? Baking soda is considered an acceptable product since it is an ingredient found in many toothpastes with the American Dental Association seal of approval, but it must be used with care. It does not contain fluoride which is important to fighting against tooth decay, and strengthening and remineralization of tooth enamel.
Given the right concentration, baking soda is not abrasive. The baking soda has the same hardness as dentin, and will not wear away your tooth structure excessively, unless you are vigorously brushing your teeth leading to mechanical abrasion. The pH in baking soda will help neutralize plaque acids in your mouth by increasing your mouth pH balance.
What benefits are there to using baking soda?
Brushing teeth with baking soda may help keep your teeth clean and help whiten them in the process. The baking soda is an abrasive so it will help get rid of any surface stains on your teeth. People often mix baking soda with hydrogen peroxide to help whiten their teeth but this combination with a bleaching product may lead to tooth sensitivity, gum and throat irritation, and erosion of tooth enamel.
Baking soda has been shown to help kill bacteria that leads to gum disease and has contributed to better gum health when used without bleaching products. Baking soda helps break up biofilm that irritates the gums and is useful for removing superficial stains.
Schedule your next cleaning and checkup today to help you maintain a healthy and bright smile for years to come. Dr. Melchers and his experienced staffare here to address all your oral health care issues. If you have any concerns about your tooth or gum health contact us today at info@oldmtpleasantdentistry.com to see how we can best meet your dental care needs.
