Baking soda has been used as a natural oral remedy for teeth whitening since the 18th century. Today, baking soda is added to many dental products that promote cleanliness and white teeth. Baking soda for whitening does not replace essential oral care such as brushing with toothpaste and flossing, but it is an effective maintenance tool.
Identification
Baking Soda also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a chemical compound with the molecular formula of NaHCO3. Baking soda is characterized as an odorless solid with a slight salty taste and resembles a crystallized white powder.
Sources
Sodium bicarbonate is found dissolved in many natural mineral springs but it is also produced artificially for an array of oral products. It is found in many toothpastes, whiteners and mouthwashes that promote clean and white teeth. Baking soda is also sold separately as a fine white powder.
Uses
Whiter Teeth Whitening reports that baking soda is effective at removing teeth stains that result from daily use. Baking soda whitens teeth by penetrating tooth enamel and lightening discoloration such as yellow and brown stains. According to The Integrative Dentist, baking soda also acts as a plaque inhibitor by blocking harmful plaque and destroying microorganisms that typically prevent teeth from being clean and looking whiter.
Methods
Green Your Guide to Green Living suggests to thoroughly rinse then dry your toothbrush before teeth whitening. Baking soda is spread evenly unto the tooth brush and applied directly to the teeth, similar to toothpaste. The texture of baking soda is much rougher and thicker than typical toothpaste, so it is recommended to brush carefully to prevent damage to the gums. Green Your also suggests mixing a few drops of hydrogen peroxide with the baking soda for added whitening power. Rinsing your mouth with water at the end of brushing removes any remaining baking soda.
Warnings
It is important to seek a dental professional's advice before attempting to whiten your teeth with baking soda. Teeth whitening with baking soda should only be attempted once every two weeks to prevent tooth enamel and gum damage, according to Whiter Teeth Whitening. Baking soda is an effective teeth whitener but does not replace proper oral cleaning and hygiene such as daily brushing and flossing. Green Your Guide to Green Living reports that baking soda is not recommended for individuals with braces or retainers because it can dissolve orthodontic glue.
