Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a popular household product used for baking and cleaning. Some people also use baking soda as part of their oral hygiene routine. They may mix baking soda with toothpaste, make a paste with water, or even sprinkle it directly on their toothbrush.
Proponents claim baking soda is an effective and natural way to whiten teeth, remove stains, and improve oral health. However, some dental professionals warn that using too much baking soda can actually damage tooth enamel over time.
What is baking soda?
Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a chemical compound with the formula NaHCO3. It has mild abrasive properties and alkaline properties, which is why it is commonly used as a leavening agent in baking recipes.
In its powdered form, baking soda appears as a fine, white crystalline solid. When mixed with an acid like lemon juice or vinegar, carbon dioxide gas is released which causes baked goods to ‘rise.’
Aside from cooking, baking soda also has a variety of household uses. It can be used as a deodorizer, surface cleaner, stain remover, and more. Some personal care products like toothpaste and mouthwash may also contain small amounts of baking soda.
How does baking soda affect teeth?
Advocates claim baking soda offers the following benefits for oral health:
- Whitens teeth – The mild abrasive properties of baking soda can help buff away surface stains on teeth.
- Neutralizes acids – The alkaline nature of baking soda helps neutralize acids in the mouth that can erode tooth enamel.
- Freshens breath – Baking soda creates an alkaline environment that discourages bacteria growth that causes bad breath.
- Removes plaque – Some claim baking soda removes plaque and polishes teeth better than regular toothpaste.
However, there are also potential downsides of using too much baking soda on teeth:
- Enamel abrasion – The gritty texture of baking soda can wear down tooth enamel over time with excessive scrubbing.
- Sensitivity – Dentine underneath the enamel can become exposed causing pain and sensitivity.
- Oral alkaline burn – High alkalinity and repeated exposure can cause chemical burns on soft tissues in the mouth.
Dental expert opinions on baking soda
There are conflicting views within the dental community about whether baking soda is safe and effective for regular use on teeth:
Potential benefits
- May help remove surface stains when used occasionally
- Can neutralize acids after consuming acidic foods and drinks
- Has some antimicrobial properties to inhibit bacteria growth
- Produces a fresh, clean feeling in the mouth
Potential risks
- Too much abrasion can wear away protective enamel over time
- Does not contain fluoride like regular toothpaste
- Frequent use can make teeth more sensitive and damage gums
- Excessive ingestion can increase sodium levels
Professional guidelines
Most mainstream dental organizations suggest limited baking soda use on teeth:
- American Dental Association – Approves baking soda for occasional use, but warns against using it too rigorously or frequently.
- European Federation of Periodontology – Considers baking soda to be too abrasive for enamel and dentine.
- British Dental Association – Advises using baking soda no more than once per week as it may damage enamel over time.
Scientific research on risks
Several scientific studies have analyzed the effects of frequent baking soda use on teeth:
Enamel abrasion
- A 2010 study found brushing with baking soda resulted in significantly more enamel loss than brushing with toothpaste.
- Researchers in a 1997 study observed damage to enamel surfaces after four weeks of twice daily brushing with baking soda.
- Brushing with baking soda has been found to erode enamel 7 times faster than brushing with toothpaste, according to a 2016 literature review.
Dentin hypersensitivity
- A clinical study found using a baking soda toothpaste twice per day for 6 weeks increased dentin hypersensitivity.
- Participants brushing with baking soda for just 60 seconds showed increases in dental sensitivity, per a 1991 study.
Oral mucosa irritation
- Chemical burns and ulcerations on the oral mucosa have been reported after frequent baking soda use, according to a 2016 literature review.
- A case study described a 24-year-old woman who experienced oral lesions and mucosal damage after using baking soda on her teeth daily for years.
Safest ways to use baking soda on teeth
Most dental professionals advise using baking soda sparingly and taking precautions to avoid overuse that could damage teeth:
Mix with toothpaste
Mix a small amount of baking soda with regular toothpaste containing fluoride. This dilutes the abrasiveness. Brush gently focusing on stained areas.
Occasional spot treatment
Make a paste with water and rub carefully onto stained or discolored areas of teeth no more than 1-2 times per week.
Rinse after acidic foods
Swish with a baking soda and water solution to neutralize acids and prevent enamel erosion after consuming acidic drinks or foods.
Limit brushing time
Brush gently for no more than 2 minutes before rinsing when using baking soda. Scrubbing too hard or long can damage enamel.
Avoid overuse
Use baking soda sparingly 1-2 times per week at most. Rely on regular fluoride toothpaste for daily brushing to strengthen and protect tooth enamel.
Conclusion
Baking soda can provide some benefits for teeth when used carefully in moderation. However, overusing baking soda can be abrasive and damage tooth enamel over time. Daily brushing with toothpaste containing fluoride is the safest, most effective way to care for teeth and avoid excessive wear.
Talk to your dentist before making baking soda part of your regular oral hygiene routine. They can assess if your teeth are healthy enough for occasional baking soda use or advise of any potential risks in your unique situation.