From cleaning to cooking, deodorizing to heartburn relief, baking soda is the very definition of an all-purpose item, used effectively in dozens if not hundreds of different ways. But what about its effects on your teeth?  

Baking soda has been used in oral hygiene for hundreds of years and was even one of the first ingredients used in the creation of toothpaste. To this day, many dental products still make use of baking soda as an ingredient, including in many modern toothpastes. And it’s no wonder – baking soda has a number of unique features that when combined create an effective oral health care aide (alongside staple dental care ingredients like fluoride). Here are just a few of the qualities that make baking soda stand out:

1. Low abrasiveness

Acidic or abrasive substances have the potential to damage or erode the hard protective enamel that coats your teeth, but baking soda’s relative softness and non-acidic pH makes it a safe, effective and non-damaging choice for teeth.

2. Neutralizes acids

Plaque, a sticky layer of bacteria that forms on your teeth and causes cavities, is highly acidic. Baking soda’s alkaline properties help to cancel out this acid, protecting your enamel against erosion. Baking soda also helps with mouth sores and tooth sensitivity in a similar way, neutralizing and reducing the acids damaging your mouth and teeth.

3. Effectively reduces stains and discolouration on teeth

We’ve already mentioned that baking soda is too soft to damage enamel, but it is still slightly abrasive – just enough, in fact, to help scrub away surface stains and discolouration caused by food and drink.  

4. Kills cavity-causing bacteria

Studies have shown that baking soda is an effective tool to kill harmful bacteria in your mouth. This effect only increases when baking soda is used in conjuction with other dental health ingredients like fluoride or hydrogen peroxide.  

That said, while baking soda is an impressive substance it still doesn’t replace a comprehensive oral health care routine that includes brushing and flossing twice a day alongside regular six-month dental cleanings and check-ups. If it’s been a while since your last visit, what are you waiting for – use the orange Book Online button to schedule your next appointment!

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