Brushing your teeth with baking soda can help reduce plaque and whiten teeth but it has downsides, including the absence of fluoride.
Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a versatile white powder with countless household applications.
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While it’s primarily recognized as a leavening agent, its uses extend far beyond baking.
One of its most common applications is as a teeth cleaner and whitener.
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Here’s an overview of the benefits and limitations of using baking soda for oral care.
Advantages
Reduces Plaque and Gingivitis
Baking soda disrupts dental biofilms—colonies of bacteria that can lead to gingivitis and cavities—by breaking them apart, which helps lower bacteria levels and protect your teeth and gums.
May Reduce Bacteria
Certain harmful bacteria thrive in acidic environments.
A 2017 study indicated that rinsing with a baking soda solution increases mouth pH, making it less acidic and potentially inhibiting the growth of cavity-causing bacteria.
Whitens Teeth
Baking soda has natural whitening properties and effectively removes surface stains.
Its mild abrasive qualities make it a popular ingredient in many commercial toothpastes.
Fluoride-Free Option
While excessive fluoride can be toxic, especially for young children, most fluoride toxicity cases are rare.
As a fluoride-free alternative, baking soda appeals to those concerned about potential risks.
Inexpensive
At around 52 cents an ounce, baking soda is an affordable and easily accessible option available in most stores.
Disadvantages
Unpleasant Taste and Texture
Many users find that brushing with straight baking soda or a paste made from it has an off-putting taste.
Additionally, the gritty texture can feel uncomfortable, akin to having sand in your mouth.
If you prefer the benefits of baking soda but want a more palatable experience, consider commercial toothpastes that include it as an ingredient.
Alternatively, adding a drop or two of peppermint oil to the paste can improve the flavor.
Limited Whitening Effect
Baking soda is a mild abrasive, and while the American Dental Association (ADA) considers it safe for enamel, some studies suggest it may not be as effective at removing stains compared to other whitening products.
If you find that baking soda doesn’t achieve the desired whitening results, you might explore options that include hydrogen peroxide or stronger abrasives.
Absence of Fluoride
ADA-approved toothpastes contain fluoride, which is essential for cavity prevention.
While fluoride occurs naturally in water and is beneficial for dental health, using baking soda alone lacks this protective element.
Therefore, relying solely on baking soda may leave you with insufficient protection against tooth decay.
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