At Parkcrest Dental Group, we get a lot of questions about at-home dental care. One of the most common questions we hear is “can I brush my teeth with baking soda?” While many articles floating around the internet tout the benefits of this toothpaste alternative, many patients are skeptical. Today, Parkcrest Dental Group weighs the pros and cons of brushing with baking soda.
Pros of Baking Soda
Brushing with baking soda offers some surprising benefits. First, baking soda is a great teeth whitening agent. Eating, drinking, and using tobacco yellow and stain our teeth over time, but baking soda effectively removes surface stains. Although it is not as effective as professional teeth whitening, it is an inexpensive alternative. Baking soda has also been shown to promote healthy pH levels in the mouth, which lowers your chances of tooth decay. Additionally, brushing with baking soda may also prevent halitosis (bad breath) and decrease your chances of contracting gum disease. With so many benefits, it is easy to see why a lot of our patients at Parkcrest Dental Group are interested in brushing with baking soda.
Cons of Baking Soda
Despite the numerous benefits of brushing with baking soda, there are a few downsides. First, baking soda can be somewhat abrasive, especially if you brush too hard. If you decide to brush with baking soda, Parkcrest Dental Group strongly recommends brushing with care. Additionally, brushing with baking soda does not provide your teeth with enough fluoride. Fluoride plays a key role in remineralizing your teeth and keeping them healthy. If you choose to solely brush with baking soda, you will have to get fluoride from another source, such as tap water or at the dental office.
Outside of oral health concerns, baking soda has a few other downsides. First, it can be incredibly messy, turning your daily dental routine into a hassle. Second, baking soda can feel gritty and somewhat unpleasant when you are brushing your teeth.
Should I Use Baking Soda?
If you think you would like to try brushing with baking soda, keep in mind that it is not officially approved by the American Dental Association. While baking soda offers some great benefits, there are also plenty of downsides. To ensure you get enough fluoride and you do not damage your teeth, only use baking soda on occasion and continue using regular toothpaste most of the time. If you use baking soda, be sure to take extra care and brush softly.
Contact Parkcrest Dental Group
At Parkcrest Dental Group, we are always happy to answer our patients questions about at-home dental care. To talk with an experienced dentist, contact us today at 417-262-5515 to schedule an appointment.
