Baking soda has many purposes—it can be used to make cakes and biscuits light and fluffy or to make your refrigerator smell fresher. Some people even use it to brush their teeth. In fact, baking soda has been an ingredient in toothpaste for over 100 years, because it can remove stains and make teeth look whiter.
But is baking soda safe to use for brushing your teeth? Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of using baking soda as toothpaste.
Brushing Your Teeth with Baking Soda
Pros:
- Neutralizes Plaque
- Fights the acid attacks from plaque, reducing your risk of cavities.
- Kills Bacteria
- Fights pathogenic bacteria, lowering your chances of plaque buildup and gum disease.
- Reduces Inflammation
- Fights gingivitis by preventing inflammation
- Removes Stains
- Polishes and whitens tooth enamel, giving you a brighter smile.
Cons:
- Mildly Abrasive
- Could scratch your gums or tooth enamel if you brush too hard.
- Tastes Bad
- Has an unpleasant, salty taste that makes brushing your teeth less enjoyable.
- Messy
- You have to mix your own baking soda “toothpaste”—it doesn’t come neatly packaged in a tube.
- No Fluoride. Your teeth need fluoride to fight cavities, so brushing only with baking soda is risky.
Tips for Using Baking Soda to Brush Your Teeth
- Mix equal parts baking soda and water to make a paste that you can dip your toothbrush into. Store it in an air-tight container.
- Baking soda is good for occasional use only—once a day at most. You still need to brush with fluoride toothpaste to protect your teeth from cavities.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and always brush gently. Overbrushing or brushing too aggressively are the main risks when it comes to using baking soda to brush your teeth.
- Get regular fluoride treatments from your dentist, to protect your teeth from cavities and rebuild lost enamel.
Cosmetic Dentistry in Colorado Springs
Before you start using baking soda to brush your teeth, talk to a dentist at South Springs Dental. We can advise you on whether or not baking soda is safe to use for brushing your teeth, and if so, how often you should use it. We also offer professional teeth whitening treatments if you want a brighter smile, and fluoride treatments to keep your enamel strong. Call us today to make an appointment, or schedule a visit online.