Does Baking Soda Work Well as a Teeth Whitener?
Using baking soda to whiten teeth is inexpensive and easy to do at home. Most dentists will recommend patients to not use baking soda on the teeth as it can remove the outer layer of dental enamel.
A review of teeth-whitening products indicated some improvements, but the study did not evaluate baking soda.
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Identification
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Baking soda has been used as a cheap dental powder since the 1930s. Many commercial toothpastes include baking soda as an ingredient.
Brushing with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide may also improve the whiteness of teeth, but it will take significantly longer than using dental strips or dental trays with stronger whitening solutions.
Significance
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Baking soda is a frugal way to slowly and gradually whiten teeth.
Another way to whiten teeth is to use more expensive commercial dental strips or trays worn overnight. They are filled with a solution of hydrogen peroxide and other ingredients to more quickly and powerfully whiten teeth.
Some people with sensitive teeth are not able to use these stronger commercial products and may be able to use baking soda in their place. -
Benefits
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Baking soda can be kept on hand for long periods of time, and it is easily purchased nearly everywhere.
Applying baking soda to the teeth once a week is likely to be useful in whitening teeth if you consume a lot of tea, coffee or other drinks or foods that stain the teeth.
Warning
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Baking soda can wear away the outer tooth enamel and should not be used daily. Many commercial toothpastes may include baking soda as an ingredient, with other elements to reduce its abrasive quality.
Misconceptions
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While brushing your teeth with baking soda may make your mouth feel "squeaky clean," baking soda is not designed to prevent cavities.
Most dentists will recommend using a commercial toothpaste to brush your teeth after every meal at least, flossing regularly and seeing a dentist for professional care.
Do not rely solely on baking soda for dental care.
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