Can Baking Soda be Used to Brush and Whiten Teeth? (2024)

Baking soda is considered a miracle product. Originally developed in 1843, baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a reliable cleaning agent, deodorizer, baking ingredient and home health remedy. Many people wonder whether they can safely use baking soda to brush or whiten their teeth. Here’s what you should know.

Safe, inexpensive toothpaste

Next time you brush your teeth, check the ingredient list on the toothpaste tube. It probably contains sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). Many toothpaste products endorsed by the American Dental Association contain baking soda. So, instead of buying toothpaste containing baking soda, some people mix a paste of baking soda and water and brush with it to clean their pearly whites.

Using baking soda is less expensive and may work better at cleaning teeth than store-bought toothpaste because it’s concentrated. Some people recommend adding a few drops of peppermint oil to improve the taste of the baking soda paste. Learn six ways to take better care of your teeth.

Whitens teeth

Most professional dental products used for teeth whitening contain sodium bicarbonate and hydrogen peroxide. These products work together to clean stains on and between teeth.

Dental experts say that since baking soda is gritty and abrasive as toothpaste, it works well to remove surface stains. 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. Note: Use the baking soda and hydrogen peroxide mixture for only one or two weeks at a time to protect tooth enamel.

Benefits vs. disadvantages

Here’s a summary of the benefits and disadvantages of using baking soda for brushing and whitening teeth:

Benefits:

  • It’s fluoride free, which may be important for people concerned about using over-the-counter toothpaste containing this chemical.
  • It’s natural and doesn’t contain dyes, flavorings or other harmful chemicals.
  • Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide are effective in whitening teeth.
  • It cleans and removes plaque.

Disadvantages:

  • It takes time to mix up the paste, and it can be messy.
  • It has an unpleasant taste and gritty texture.
  • It does not contain fluoride, so teeth may be more susceptible to decay.
  • It’s abrasive and may wear down tooth enamel.

Another way to keep teeth and gums healthy is to eat fruits and vegetables rich in lutein, zeaxanthin, bioflavonoids, antioxidants, and vitamins A, D and E. Read this blog to learn more.

Can Baking Soda be Used to Brush and Whiten Teeth? (2024)

FAQs

Can Baking Soda be Used to Brush and Whiten Teeth? ›

Baking soda can be used with some water to remove the stains on the surface of the teeth. It can also be used with hydrogen peroxide to enhance its whitening effects. Baking soda can be used by individuals with regular toothpastes too. It is also used commercially in some teeth whitening products and toothpastes.

Does brushing with 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.

Can you use Arm and Hammer baking soda to brush your teeth? ›

Deep cleaning action – ARM & HAMMER™ dental grade baking soda dissolves quickly and can penetrate between teeth and along the gum line – you'll feel it working for a deep clean. In fact, ARM & HAMMER™ Baking Soda toothpaste was shown in clinical studies to remove more plaque than a non-baking soda toothpaste.

What does baking soda do to the 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.

Is brushing your teeth with baking soda and water good? ›

In addition, baking soda helps neutralize plaque acids and also break down and remove stains. Less plaque helps prevent tooth decay. Baking soda also works to whiten your teeth! You can make a DIY baking soda paste from baking soda and a little water and dip your toothbrush in to help clean your teeth.

What happens if I brush my teeth with baking soda everyday? ›

Brushing with baking soda is particularly dangerous when done too often. 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.

How to whiten teeth in 2 minutes? ›

Baking-powder eliminates stains on the surface of your teeth and lemon juice as we already said has multiple components that lighten teeth. Just mix a teaspoon of baking powder and a teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice and brush your teeth with the paste this mixture will work wonders in just two minutes.

What are the side effects of rinsing your mouth with baking soda? ›

Baking soda may be allergic to some people, especially women, as a result, it may cause rashes and sores on the palate, gums, tongue, and lips. Burning, itching or pain may occur due to mucosal irritation. Also, bleeding gums are not impossible.

How to make homemade teeth whitening? ›

Combine 2 teaspoons (10 ml) of hydrogen peroxide with 1 teaspoon (6 grams) of baking soda and gently brush your teeth with the mixture. Limit the use of this homemade paste to a few times per week, as overuse can erode your tooth enamel.

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.

How to get whiter teeth naturally? ›

Seven Ways to Naturally Whiten Teeth
  1. Eat Strawberries. One of the simplest ways to naturally whiten your teeth is just by eating strawberries. ...
  2. Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables. ...
  3. Brush After You Eat or Drink. ...
  4. Rinse with Apple Cider Vinegar. ...
  5. Apply Coconut Oil. ...
  6. Brush Your Tongue. ...
  7. Use Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide.

What are the pros and cons of baking soda on teeth? ›

Sodium bicarbonate raises the pH level in your mouth and creates an alkaline environment that stops the formation of cavities. Con: If you brush your teeth with baking soda, it's not enough on its own to kill bacteria, remove plaque, and prevent cavities.

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.

How long does baking soda toothpaste take 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.

Is it safe to brush your teeth with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide? ›

While baking soda and hydrogen peroxide have several benefits, they can also pose some risks due to excessive use. According to the American Dental Association, going beyond the ideal 3.6% concentration of hydrogen peroxide can be damaging to your teeth.

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.

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