Is Baking Soda Safe To Use On My Teeth?
Baking soda is a common ingredient these days in many brand name toothpastes. However, can you brush your teeth with baking soda alone? Also known as sodium bicarbonate, it has been praised for its ability to whiten everything from laundry to tile grout. So, surely, it is just as effective on teeth, right? The short answer is Yes. However, preoper use comes with some caution.
Baking Soda And Your Teeth
The number one concern when brushing with baking soda is its abrasive nature. The sodium bicarbonate compound becomes less abrasive when you dilute and mix it down with something else, like water. For some, there may be sensitivities to the acidic quality of baking soda. However, as a general rule, the compound on its own is not abrasive enough to cause severe dental damage to the teeth. The problem is how you brush your teeth. If you tend to brush aggressively, this in conjunction with the sodium bicarbonate substance can wear away and damage the enamel on your teeth. As long as you use it gently on your teeth, it can be very effective at breaking down and preventing plaque, which is the main culprit that produces cavities.
What Are The Benefits To Brushing With Baking Soda?
There are quite a bit of benefits to baking soda, which may be the reason why so many companies are using it as a primary ingredient in many of their products. For starters, sodium bicarbonate is great at killing bacteria, especially the bacteria that cause gum disease. In addition, this compound is really great at removing stubborn stains from your teeth, which makes going in for routine teeth cleanings a breeze. Consider rubbing a small amount of baking soda with a cotton swab on a stain gently and not too vigorously. You should see the cotton swab change color as it whitens your teeth.
Effective Brushing With Baking Soda
Consider adding sea salt to your baking soda when brushing your teeth. Dilute the mixture with a little bit of water to acheive a paste-like substance. Brush as you normally would and avoid swallowing while paying special attention to the gums. If you find the technique is overly sensitive to your teeth or if red sores develop, stop using it. Your dentist may suggest that this technique should be avoided if you have normally sensitive gums. You will want to consult with a professional to learn more.
Be aware that sodium bicarbonate contains no flouride, which is the main ingredient in commercial toothpastes. Flouride is important as it help to nourish and strengthen the enamel on the teeth. Also, if you are on a low sodium diet, brushing with sodium bicarbonate can possibly increase your salt intake.
Learn More About Effective Brushing Techniques
A visit to your Spring Hill family dentist for your checkups and teeth cleaning is a perfect opportunity to ask questions about brush techniques and the types of cleaning pastes that are right for you.
Brushing your teeth is the foundation to good oral hygeine. According to the American Heart Association, good oral hygiene can help prevent other health conditions including heart disease. If brushing with baking soda can help keep your teeth and gums healthy, we invite you to consider it as a tool in your dental health.
If it is time for a checkup, please call The Dental and Denture Care Center at (352) 848-1050 or contact us through our website here to schedule your appointment today. Our team of dental experts are here to give you the best smile of your life.
