What is Baking Soda?
Baking soda has a myriad of household uses as well as providing various health benefits, including the benefit of whitening teeth. Known as sodium bicarbonate, the substance is found in mineral springs or can easily be produced artificially.
How Does Baking Soda Work?
Mildly alkaline, baking soda dissolves in water in order to penetrate tooth enamel. With a slightly abrasive action, the free radicals that are emitted once baking soda is mixed in water help to scrape off the yellow or brown stains that buildup from drinking coffee, tea, colas or from smoking or chewing tobacco. In this way, the mixture is able to break down discoloration as it interacts with stain molecules to lighten and brighten teeth.
Other Benefits of Using Baking Soda
Baking soda also removes plaque, helping to prevent tooth decay and to freshen the breath. As one of the least expensive substances on the market, using baking soda is a great way to avoid spending money on commercial teeth whitening kits or thousands of dollars on in-office whitening treatments.
How to Brush with Baking Soda
Cleaning your teeth with baking soda is as easy as it is with regular toothpaste. Just dampen your toothbrush and dip it into a small pile of baking soda, making sure to cover all the bristles.
Brush your teeth for two minutes, making sure to reach each and every tooth.
Once you are done with this thorough brushing, spit out the excess baking soda and then rinse your mouth with water. If you feel a burning or tingling sensation, this is normal as the baking soda performs its cleaning action.
Tips and Warnings
If you want to add extra whitening power, wet your toothbrush with hydrogen peroxide instead of water and then dip into the baking soda.
Do not brush your teeth with baking soda more than once a week. More frequent brushing can cause the enamel coating on your teeth to become damaged. Be careful not to brush too hard for the same reason.
Use regular toothpaste for all other brushings, which should be a minimum of twice daily (morning and night) and after each meal.
Do not brush with baking soda if you use orthodontic glue or if you have braces or wear a permanent retainer.
