When you look at your smile in the mirror, do you see room for improvement? Could a brighter, whiter smile boost your self-confidence and self-esteem?
Many people are interested in brightening their pearly whites. In fact, experts estimate that Americans spend nearly $2 billion dollars on teeth whitening each year. However, not everyone wants to invest in professional teeth whitening services. That’s why home remedies — including hydrogen peroxide and baking soda — have become popular for their availability, ease of use and low cost.
If you’ve wondered about how to whiten teeth with baking soda, keep reading to learn the step-by-step process. Plus, learn more about the safety of baking soda for teeth and how it works.
Is Baking Soda Safe for Teeth?
Also known as sodium bicarbonate, baking soda is a type of salt commonly found in your kitchen.
The American Dental Association (ADA) has confirmed that baking soda is safe for teeth, including enamel (the protective layer of your teeth) and dentin (the porous layer of tissue located beneath the enamel). Since it’s less abrasive than many other whitening alternatives, it won’t damage your teeth when used properly.
How Does Baking Soda Whiten Teeth?
Since it’s baking soda is mildly abrasive, it’s great for removing stains from the surfaces of teeth. However, it does more to benefit your dental health. According to The Journal of the American Dental Association, baking soda also helps fight bacteria and it buffers acid in your mouth.
How Often Should I Use Baking Soda To Whiten My Teeth?
Most dental experts agree that you can safely use baking soda as a natural teeth whitener two to three times per week. Since the whitening effect of baking soda for teeth takes time, results may be seen gradually over the course of several weeks.
How To Whiten Teeth With Baking Soda: 3 Steps
Apply baking soda to your teeth by following these steps:
- Mix equal parts baking soda and water to form a thick paste. For example, add one tablespoon of baking soda to one tablespoon of water.
- Apply the paste to your teeth using a toothbrush or the tip of your finger. Use circular motions to distribute it on your teeth for about two minutes. Remember to be gentle.
- After spitting out the baking soda paste, rinse your mouth with water to remove any residue.
Want to boost the whitening process? To enhance the whitening effect of baking soda for teeth, use hydrogen peroxide instead of water to create the paste.
Baking Soda Toothpaste
Baking soda is a popular ingredient in toothpaste because of its ability to clean and whiten teeth effectively. Just remember that it can take two to six weeks of using this type of toothpaste daily to notice a whiter smile.
Research shows that toothpastes that contain baking soda do a better job of removing stains and whitening teeth than toothpastes without it. Plus, they often contain fluoride and help control tartar.
Many people prefer the taste of baking soda toothpaste compared with homemade baking soda paste. They may find it easier and more convenient to whiten teeth by incorporating baking soda toothpaste into their daily brushing routines.
Ask Your Dentist
If you’re thinking of trying an at-home whitening treatment, it’s best to ask your dentist for personalized recommendations based on your smile goals and oral health. Your dentist has the expertise and experience needed to evaluate natural teeth whitening options for safety and effectiveness.
At West Coast Dental, our board-certified dentists have the training and experience needed to advise you about professional teeth whitening services. Compared with home remedies, professional teeth whitening tends to be the most effective. Visit a location near you to discuss teeth whitening services with an experienced dentist.
Sources
OnHealth – Teeth Whitening: Facts, Types, Products That Work
The Journal of the American Dental Association — “Stain removal and whitening by baking soda dentifrice: A review of literature”
Healthline – What to Know About Brushing Your Teeth with Baking Soda
Arm & Hammer – How to Help Whiten Teeth with Baking Soda
Colgate — Does Baking Soda Whiten Teeth?
Healthline — 6 Simple Ways to Naturally Whiten Your Teeth at Home
The Journal of the American Dental Association — Baking soda dentifrices and oral health
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