Is It Okay To Brush Your Teeth With Baking Soda?

People have used natural abrasives to clean teeth since ancient times. Baking soda gained popularity in the 1800s and became a common ingredient in commercial toothpaste over the next century.

Nowadays, some toothpaste brands still advertise using baking soda in their products. So, is it okay to brush your teeth with baking soda? Here’s what you need to consider.

Is It Safe To Brush Your Teeth With Baking Soda?

Yes, it is safe to brush your teeth with baking soda. In fact, it can be a great choice for these reasons:

• Teeth Whitening: Baking soda’s mild abrasiveness helps remove surface stains.
• Plaque Reduction: The abrasive nature also helps break up plaque.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Baking soda is inexpensive and readily available as a toothpaste alternative.
• Acid Neutralizing: Baking soda neutralizes acids in the mouth, which reduces plaque formation.
• Natural Alternative: Some people prefer natural ingredients and avoid certain chemicals in over-the-counter toothpaste.

However, is baking soda dangerous for teeth? Overuse or vigorous brushing with baking soda can erode the protective enamel of your teeth, which increases tooth sensitivity and the risk of cavities. Additionally, aggressive application can also cause gum irritation. Baking soda also does not include fluoride, the mineral that strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities.

How Do You Brush Your Teeth With Baking Soda?

Brushing teeth with baking soda is a relatively simple process:

1. Create a Paste: Combine ¼ to ½ teaspoon of baking soda with enough water in a small bowl to create a paste. A ratio of two parts baking soda to one part water should give you the most effective consistency.
2. Application: Dip a soft-bristled toothbrush into the paste and make sure it’s evenly coated. Use gentle circular motions to brush all the surfaces of your teeth. Do not scrub; you may damage tooth enamel and gums.
3. Duration: Brush for about two minutes. When you’re done, rinse your mouth completely with water to remove any residual baking soda.

You should only use baking soda to replace fluoride toothpaste a few times a week. Or, you can sprinkle a little baking soda on top of the toothpaste and brush as usual to benefit from its whitening properties while protecting your teeth from cavities.

Can I Brush My Teeth With Baking Soda With Braces?

Even with braces, brushing your teeth with baking soda is generally okay. While moderately abrasive, the baking soda shouldn’t damage any of the hardware or adhesives if you follow the above guidelines. However, you should still check with your orthodontist first.

Understand that excessive or vigorous brushing with baking soda can wear down the materials that attach the brackets to your teeth. Also, if you whiten your teeth with baking soda, it won’t reach the surfaces covered by glues or bonding agents and could result in uneven effects that show when your braces come off.

Enhance Your Oral Care by Brushing Teeth With Baking Soda

As long as you consult with your dental care professional first and follow these simple guidelines, you can brush your teeth with baking soda. If you have any questions about what you should use to brush your teeth with braces, contact us at Peterson Family Orthodontics.