Baking soda is a popular home remedy for teeth whitening. But does it actually work? And are there any risks associated with using baking soda to whiten teeth? Yes, baking soda can whiten your teeth and has relatively low risks associated with using it, however, this isn’t the full story. It doesn’t mean you should be running to the store to buy a box of baking soda to put on your teeth. In this article, we will break down everything there is to know about using baking soda for teeth whitening. This includes tips on how to use baking soda for teeth whitening safely and effectively. So if you’re interested in learning more about this DIY teeth whitening method, keep reading!
Does Baking Soda Whiten Teeth?
Before discussing baking soda teeth whitening effects it’s important to first understand the two ways in which stains are removed from a tooth. The first is through a chemical reaction using peroxides. These chemicals are able to bleach your tooth by penetrating into the layers of your tooth. This is what you would experience at the dentist when getting your teeth professionally whitened and from some store-bought whitening kits.
The second is through a mechanical process using abrasives. This is when you use toothpaste or some other product that physically scrubs the stains off of your teeth. However, these types of whitening techniques can only remove surface stains and will not be able to penetrate into the deeper layers of your teeth. This is what you would experience if you were to use a whitening toothpaste or baking soda.
Baking soda is abrasive and does whiten teeth by scrubbing the surface of your teeth. There are plenty of studies that show the efficacy of using baking soda for teeth whitening. However, these studies use toothpaste or toothpowders that include baking soda. They don’t just use baking soda on their own. So while it does work, it’s not as effective as some of the other methods out there. Instead of using baking soda straight from the box, we recommend using a toothpaste that includes baking soda. That way you can get the benefits of using baking soda without having to worry about using too much or not enough.
Are There Any Risks Associated With Using Baking Soda to Whiten Teeth?
Now that we know baking soda does whiten teeth, let’s discuss if there are any risks associated with using it.
Should I Worry About Damaging My Teeth?
A common fear is that the abrasiveness of baking soda will damage your teeth. However, this is largely unfounded. Baking soda is only slightly more abrasive than plain water and less abrasive than regular toothpaste. So as long as you’re not brushing your teeth too much with a hard toothbrush, you should be fine. In fact, the only way you will cause harm to your teeth is if you brush too aggressively. But this has nothing to do with the baking soda.
Is Baking Soda Too Basic?
Another concern is that baking soda is too basic and will therefore damage your body. However, this is also unfounded. Baking soda is only slightly basic and will not cause any damage to your body. Your body has an amazing ability to regulate its pH and will quickly neutralize any basic solutions created by baking soda.
Can Baking Soda Kill Bacteria?
Yes, baking soda can kill bacteria. In fact, it’s often used as a natural cleaning agent because of its ability to kill bacteria. However, it’s important to note that baking soda does not kill all types of bacteria. On top of this, no good or bad bacteria will be killed at the low concentrations people typically use.
How Can I Make a Baking Soda Teeth Whitener At Home?
Remember, the best way to use baking soda for teeth whitening is by using a toothpaste that includes baking soda. Additionally, it would be better to use a chemical teeth whitening method like whitening strips, gels, or seeing the dentist. These teeth whitening methods are much more effective. But, if you insist on making your own baking soda teeth whitener at home, here are some ways you can do it:
Whiten Teeth (Baking Soda Water Method)
This method is probably not very effective as the concentration of baking soda is quite low and toothpaste is a better option. However, it is a commonly used trick:
- In a small bowl, add one teaspoon of baking soda
- Add a few drops of water
- Continue stirring until it forms a paste
- Dip your toothbrush into the mixture and brush it onto your teeth
- Leave the paste on your teeth for 2 to 3 minutes
- Simply rinse out with water to finish
Whiten Teeth (Baking Soda Toothpaste Method)
This method is a little more effective as it incorporates toothpaste, which is a much more effective way to clean teeth. However, many kinds of toothpaste already contain baking soda making this have no effect:
- Follow your normal routine by applying toothpaste to your brush
- Sprinkle a little bit of baking soda on top
- Brush your teeth as you normally do
Whiten Teeth (Baking Soda Hydrogen Peroxide Method)
This method is probably the most effective method of the three listed above as it uses hydrogen peroxide, which is a bleaching agent. However, it’s important to note that you should only use a very low concentration of hydrogen peroxide. Higher concentrations are typically used by your dentist and are more effective:
- Add one teaspoon of baking soda to a small bowl.
- Add half a teaspoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide
- Keep stirring the mixture until it turns into a sticky texture
- With a toothbrush, apply the mixture to your teeth and let it sit for 2 minutes
- Thoroughly rinse the product off and you will be finished
Our Conclusions on Baking Soda Teeth Whiteners
While baking soda does have some benefits, it’s important to note that trying to make your own baking soda teeth whitener is probably not the best use of your time. If you want to get the benefits of baking soda as a teeth whitener just buy toothpaste that already contains it.
Additionally, if you want to get the most effective teeth whitening results, we recommend using chemical teeth whitening methods like whitening strips, gels, or seeing the dentist. These teeth whitening methods are much more effective and will give you better results in a shorter amount of time.
Disclaimer
The contents of this website, such as text, graphics, images, and other material are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be substituted for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Nothing on this website constitutes the practice of medicine, law or any other regulated profession.
No two mouths are the same, and each oral situation is unique. As such, it isn’t possible to give comprehensive advice or diagnose oral conditions based on articles alone. The best way to ensure you’re getting the best dental care possible is to visit a dentist in person for an examination and consultation.
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