Posted: September 28, 2018
There are a number of alternatives for traditional over the counter toothpaste. A common product that is used by people for brushing is baking soda. What do studies say about brushing with baking soda? Or the safety and long term effect of baking soda as a dentrifice (tooth cleaning paste). It is perfectly acceptable to use baking soda because it is an ingredient found in many toothpastes, but it must be used with care. Baking soda by itself does not contain fluoride as is usually found in OTC toothpaste. Fluoride contributes to the strengthening and remineralization of enamel.
Given the right concentration, baking soda is not very abrasive. The hardness of baking soda is comparative to dentin, so it does not wear on tooth structure excessively by itself. Brushing vigorously can wear the tooth mechanically (mechanical abrasion). The pH of baking soda helps it neutralize plaque acids by increasing the pH in the mouth. An acidic oral cavity, lower than 5.1, causes enamel to demineralize and breakdown. Juices and other beverages can contribute to an oral environment that is acidic and are thus conducive to tooth decay.
Baking soda has been shown to be bacteriocidal (kills bacteria) that contribute to gum disease. And has contributed to better gum health in studies that compared baking soda to placebo. Baking soda helps break up biofilm that can irritate gum tissue. It is also useful in removing stains that are superficial. Studies have shown that the use of baking soda is safe for use in patients with a low salt diet since we swallow a small portion of the toothpaste/dentrifice that we use.
If you have any concerns about your tooth or gum health, contact us at Museum Smiles. We are conveniently located within a few minutes of downtown Fort Worth. And proudly serve patients from Arlington, Keller, and Fort Worth Areas.
