Baking soda has a history as one of the most versatile cleaners in the home. It is non-toxic, natural and safe, and among its many benefits are its powers to clean stains and whiten teeth. There might be a nostalgic quality to baking soda toothpaste that has made it popular among consumers, but its whitening power has certainly been proven over time.
Background
People have been using baking soda to clean their teeth for decades. The manufactures of Arm & Hammer® baking soda took note of this trend, releasing the first baking soda toothpaste in 1988. The product was a hit, and today nearly every toothpaste company has a baking soda toothpaste. Most are made with peroxide, another whitener that creates a fizzing reaction with baking soda.
Significance
Baking soda removes stains with its light abrasiveness, cleaning deep into the surface of the teeth. It also polishes the teeth, allowing them to reflect more light, which gives a whiter appearance. Baking soda toothpastes also include other stain removers and whiteners like peroxide and titanium dioxide, which work in tandem to clean the teeth.
Brands
Brands that sell baking soda toothpaste include Arm & Hammer, Colgate, NOW Foods, Desert Essence, Weleda and Tom's of Maine, which makes an all-natural variety. There even is a baking soda toothpaste made for dogs and cats by Doctors Foster and Smith.
Do It Yourself
There are many recipes for making your own baking soda toothpaste and tooth powder, a dry tooth cleaning product. Use 2 tbsp. of baking soda and 1 tbsp. of peroxide. Baking soda also can be used as a whitening supplement of sorts to regular toothpaste. After brushing your teeth, dip your toothbrush into some baking soda and brush again as you normally would.
Considerations
For overall dental care, the effectiveness of baking soda-based toothpaste is a matter of debate. Ken Burrell, D.D.S., senior director of the American Dental Association's Council on Scientific Affairs, said that while research is ongoing, there is no evidence that shows any therapeutic benefit in brushing with baking soda toothpaste.
Still, today's baking soda toothpastes often contain other cleaning and disinfecting agents that are effective. If you prefer baking soda toothpaste because of its taste and it encourages you to brush, continue to use it.
