Baking Soda Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening can be termed as one of the most important part of the modern-day cosmetic dentistry. The white color of the enamel can get discolored due to several factors. It can be due to growing age, which makes the enamel less porous and more transparent, over a period of time. A large number of cracks can also develop on the enamel, due to daily activities like, chewing foods. The cracks and crevices of the enamel can slowly get filled up with stains and debris, which makes the teeth appear dull. Many times, factors like, smoking, teeth grinding, fluorosis as well as, excessive consumption of coffee and tea, and intake of certain drugs like, tetracycline can cause teeth discoloration. Teeth whitening or teeth bleaching can help to remove the stain deposits of the tooth enamel. But, the process can be a bit expensive, and hence, you can try some homemade teeth whitening products in order to skip the expenses. One such teeth whitening product is baking soda, which can be found in almost every household. Here is a brief account of baking soda teeth whitening.

Baking Soda Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is usually carried out with the help of some oxidizing agents like, hydrogen peroxide, that can oxidize the stains deposited on the tooth enamel. Baking soda or sodium bicarbonate can also be used for this purpose. This white, powdery compound is an effective cleanser, that can be used for removing teeth discoloration. Baking soda can reach the cracks and crevices formed on the enamel, and thus remove all debris and stains to give your teeth a bright and dazzling appearance. Another advantage of using baking soda for teeth whitening is that it can help to reduce the bacterial growth inside the mouth, and remove the plaque buildup. This in turn, can prove helpful for maintaining oral hygiene to remove bad breath, and prevent several dental and gum diseases.

Baking Soda Teeth Whitening Recipe

You can use a paste of baking soda in place of your regular toothpaste, or combine it with some other products to enhance its effectiveness. Here are some baking soda teeth whitening recipes for you.

Recipe #1: Peroxide and Baking Soda Teeth Whitening
Hydrogen peroxide is a strong chemical with bleaching properties and so, can be used along with baking soda to whiten teeth. Mix a small amount of hydrogen peroxide with baking soda to make a thick paste, and use it as a toothpaste. After brushing the teeth, rinse the mouth properly. Make sure that, you do not swallow the product while brushing your teeth. While purchasing hydrogen peroxide from a medical store, make sure that it is 3% or less solution, marked for home use and not industrial use.

Recipe #2: Baking Soda and Salt
This is one of the simplest baking soda teeth whitening recipe. To make this teeth whitening product, all you need is baking soda and salt. Just mix about 3 teaspoons of baking soda, with about 1 teaspoon of table salt. Then, use it as a tooth powder to remove stains from your teeth. Then, rinse the mouth properly with clean water.

Recipe #3: Baking Soda, Glycerin and Peppermint Extract
To make this baking soda teeth whitening recipe, mix about 5 to 6 teaspoons of baking soda with about 3 to 4 teaspoons of vegetable glycerin and make a fine paste. Now, add about half spoon salt and a few drops of peppermint oil or extract to it. Again, mix all the ingredients thoroughly, and then use it as a toothpaste to whiten your teeth.

While using baking soda for whitening your teeth, make sure that you use it carefully and judiciously. Do not brush or rub your teeth vigorously, as it can damage the enamel of your teeth. Excessive and long term use of baking soda can corrode your teeth, as it is an abrasive material. So, be sure to use it in moderation, and talk to your dentist or physician, regarding how frequently it can be used for whitening your teeth.