Baking soda has been touted as one of the abrasive options that can assist with removing dental plaque off teeth. You would use baking soda to brush your teeth, and it has been promoted as an effective method to whiten teeth.
Baking soda is known as sodium bicarbonate, which is an abrasive compound that helps to remove stains from the likes of coffee, tea or smoking to make way for a brighter smile. Therefore, if you’re suffering from discolouration, you can use baking soda to brush your teeth.
Although understandably, patients have raised questions regarding the safety of baking soda, and whether it does more damage to teeth than good. So, can you use baking soda to brush your teeth? Is baking soda safe enough? Well, we break down below what you need to know.
How To Use Baking Soda To Brush Your Teeth Safely
Baking soda is an abrasive property, and just because it can be used for brushing your teeth doesn’t mean it should be used like you would with toothpaste. Baking soda shouldn’t be used very frequently because there is a risk it can damage your enamel and cause enamel erosion. Consider using baking soda once a week maximum. It is also important to point out that baking soda should not be used to replace toothpaste. Baking soda contains no fluoride substance, which helps to strengthen your enamel.
When applying baking soda to your teeth, ensure that when you brush your teeth with it, it is used gently. Do not scrub hard against the teeth. Apply a small amount to your toothbrush along with fluoride toothpaste, and apply it around your teeth softly and gently, as you would when normally brushing your teeth.
It is recommended that if you’re seeking to use baking soda, that you consult the dentist first. This is to help determine whether your oral health is strong enough to use baking soda and if you’re already suffering from any pre-existing oral health issues.
How Often Should I Use Baking Soda?
The best person to answer that question will be your dentist. The reason is that their answer will be dependent on the state of your oral health. General recommendations are that you should use baking soda once a week maximum, and it should be used with fluoride toothpaste together. Applying too much baking soda on your toothbrush and brushing with it on its own can increase the risk of gum and enamel damage.
Ensure that when you use baking soda that your mouth is thoroughly rinsed with lukewarm water. It is recommended that you avoid using antimicrobial mouthwash of any kind.
If you’re considering using baking soda to brush your teeth, contact us at Complete Family Dental so we can provide the adequate advice you need for your smile to shine. Contact us here!