Does Baking Soda Whiten Teeth Naturally?
Get affordable dental teeth whitening in the UK from one of 9 nationwide YDS clinics. Contact us to discuss your options and pay monthly finance today.
Yes, baking soda is recognised to have a whitening effect on teeth. As with any natural ingredients however, its effectiveness on moderate to severe discolouration can be questioned.
Does baking soda whiten teeth?
Baking soda is a mild abrasive. When applied to the teeth, the ingredient gently buffs away surface stains. So, can baking soda whiten teeth? Many patients report a brighter, more uniform smile with committed application. As mentioned earlier though, if your discolouration is more on the moderate or severe side, you may not see much of a difference.
How to whiten teeth with baking soda
Baking soda does not replace your fluoride toothpaste. Please continue your regular teeth brushing routine.
- Add one teaspoon of baking soda into a bowl.
- Add two teaspoons of water to the bowl.
- Mix the ingredients together to create a paste.
- Swirl the head of your toothbrush into the mixture.
- Brush your teeth for at least two minutes.
- Spit out any remnants and rinse your mouth with water.
Repeat this a few times per week. If you want to forgo the extra brushing, look for teeth whitening toothpastes with baking soda already in it. These products are widely available both online and over the counter.
Other natural teeth whitening methods
Baking soda isn’t the only other ingredient in your cupboards that can give you a white, dazzling smile.
Ingredient | How does it work? |
|---|---|
Coconut oil | This antimicrobial ingredient is used in the ‘oil pulling’ technique that has grown in popularity. |
Banana peel | Rich in potassium and magnesium, two ingredients believed to have a whitening effect. |
Turmeric | Mildly abrasive, antimicrobial and packed full of antioxidants. Targets surface stains. |
Charcoal | A very common teeth whitening ingredient, charcoal polishes the teeth to lift surface stains. |
Bicarbonate of soda | Similar to baking soda, bicarbonate of soda polishes the tooth’s enamel for a dazzling finish. |
The risks of DIY teeth whitening
The allure of low-cost homemade remedies for teeth whitening may seem tempting. However, it is vital that you consider the risks. While there is some research exploring the connection of baking soda, teeth whitening and whiter smiles, you still have the chance of damaging your enamel. This is because baking soda is abrasive. Do not overuse the ingredient or carry out the wrong technique. Do not replace your fluoride toothpaste with baking soda either as it does not have the same protective properties as fluoride. Conclusion: If done carefully, DIY teeth whitening mixtures can give you the Hollywood smile you have always wanted. If you have any questions about baking soda and teeth whitening, or teeth whitening procedures in general, do not hesitate to contact Yorkshire Dental Suite.