Is Baking Soda Good For Your Teeth
If you find yourself constantly drinking coffees, teas, dark sodas, and consuming other drinks that are known for staining teeth, tooth whitening may be beneficial to help remove some of those stains. There are many at-home and in-office remedies available ranging from deep cleanings to teeth whitening strips. But if you are looking for a more affordable alternative, you may have looked into using baking soda in your oral care routine. Baking soda is a common household item that is often used in over the counter toothpaste in order to help whiten teeth beyond what traditional toothpaste can do. Baking soda is an effective teeth whitening alternative which, when used properly, can be used without damaging your enamel.
How does baking soda whiten teeth?
Baking soda, when added to or combined with water, acts as a mild abrasive that can physically clean away surface stains on the teeth. The friction created when brushing with a baking soda mixture rubs away stains while keeping the enamel safe. Although baking soda cannot keep your teeth safe from cavities the same way fluoride toothpaste can, it still does have some minor antibacterial properties which allow it to help keep your mouth safe from tooth decay.
How to make DIY tooth whitening with baking soda
Making a baking soda teeth whitening mixture is simple and fast, requiring nothing more than baking soda and water. Simply mix about one tablespoon each of baking soda and water until you get a thick paste. If you need more, simply keep the quantity of each in equal parts.
You can apply the mixture to your teeth with a toothbrush. Once applied on the teeth, use your toothbrush to gently rub the surfaces of your teeth in circular motions hitting each tooth. Do not use too much force or pressure when brushing with baking soda. Brushing harder does not mean that you will get whiter teeth.
After brushing for 1-2 minutes, simply spit out the mixture and rinse out your mouth with water as you would when normally brushing your teeth. Teeth whitening with baking soda should not be used as a substitute for brushing your teeth since it does not provide the same protection and cleaning that fluoride does. Before using baking soda as a routine in your dental care it is important to see your Dentist first for a cleaning/check up to ensure your mouth is clean and healthy. In addition, baking soda may damage crowns, veneers and other fillings so your Dentist will be able to advise you regarding its use.
The benefits of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide
Using baking soda for teeth whitening can help to whiten teeth by physically wiping away surface stains due to its abrasive nature. Adding hydrogen peroxide to the mix can provide the added benefit of chemical cleaning to your teeth. Hydrogen peroxide is often the main ingredient in professional teeth whitening solutions and is a safe and affordable over the counter product that can safely improve teeth whitening results. Over the counter hydrogen peroxide does not have the same strength or concentration as professional teeth whitening gels used in your dental office, however the concept is still the same.
Is baking soda safe for tooth whitening?
According to the American Dental Association it is safe to use baking soda daily for teeth whitening. Baking soda should not be used as a substitute for normal fluoride toothpaste, only as an addition to your routine. As long as you are not overusing this treatment method it is a completely safe way to whiten teeth while also providing some minor protection from bacteria.
When will I see results?
Using baking soda may require consistent use for several weeks before you may begin to notice whitening effects. For faster results, you may want to consider in-office professional teeth whitening. The teeth whitening products used in your dentist's office are considerably stronger.
In conclusion
Using baking soda to help whiten teeth is a proven safe and effective treatment method when used consistently over an extended period of time. Patients starting baking soda treatment for tooth whitening should continue to use traditional fluoride toothpaste, mouthwash, and should regularly visit their dentist for routine cleanings at least once every six months. For additional information speak to your dentist about at home baking soda treatment. Dental365 offers locations across New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode island. Call to schedule your appointment at 844.365.DENTAL or request an appointment through our website at any time.
