Content

• Steps
• Method 1 of 2: Brush your teeth with a baking soda paste
• Method 2 of 2: Try alternative methods
• Tips
• Warnings

Having white teeth can significantly improve self-esteem. Fortunately, you don't have to spend a lot of money on whitening kits or professional treatments. Brushing your teeth or rinsing your mouth with baking soda will help whiten your teeth, but use this method with caution. To avoid erosion of the enamel of your teeth, brush them with baking soda in moderation and do not apply too much force. Be aware that loss of natural color can indicate dental problems, so make an appointment with your dentist if you haven't had a check-up for a while.

Steps

Method 1 of 2: Brush your teeth with a baking soda paste

1. 1 Mix roughly equal parts of baking soda and water. In a small glass, mix half a teaspoon (3 grams) of baking soda with enough water to form a paste, namely half or a quarter teaspoon of water (1 ¼ –2 ½ ml). A paste with a ratio of one to two parts baking soda to one part water is easier to apply. Plus, it works better than baking soda alone.
   • Do not add lemon, strawberry, or any other fruit juice to the baking soda paste. Fruit juices are acidic and can corrode tooth enamel, especially when combined with baking soda or other abrasive products.
2. 2 Clean teeth with baking soda paste for one to two minutes. Dip a soft-bristled brush into the paste and gently rub your teeth in a circular motion. Walk all over your mouth instead of rubbing one spot for two minutes. Do not press too hard or you may damage your teeth.
   • Alternatively, gently spread the paste over your teeth with your fingertips. Rub it in with gentle circular motions and do not apply excessive force.
   • If you have gum recession (drooping), never brush the bases of your teeth or around the gum line with baking soda. The substance that coats the teeth under the gums is softer than enamel and is prone to damage.
3. 3 Rinse out your mouth when you're done brushing your teeth. After brushing your teeth for two minutes, spit out the baking soda and rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash. Also, rinse your toothbrush thoroughly.
   • Note that you should not rinse your mouth after using a fluoride toothpaste, as this will reduce the positive effects of fluoride. For the same reason, do not brush your teeth with baking soda or rinse your mouth with it immediately after using regular toothpaste. If you still have toothpaste on your teeth, use as little water as possible.
4. 4 Repeat the procedure every other day for two weeks. Brush your teeth with a baking soda paste no more than every other day for one to two weeks. Then, reduce the frequency to one to two times a week. Because baking soda is abrasive, using it more often can harm your teeth.
   • Keep in mind that brushing your teeth with baking soda should not replace brushing your teeth with regular toothpaste. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and get regular dental check-ups as these are the best ways to keep your teeth healthy.
   • Before starting the procedure, consult your dentist to find out if your teeth are healthy enough for this method.It is possible that your teeth are prone to abrasion and baking soda can cause permanent, abnormal tooth wear.

Method 2 of 2: Try alternative methods

1. 1 Mix two parts baking soda with one part hydrogen peroxide (1-3% strength). Hydrogen peroxide can whiten teeth, but use it with caution. To try this method, mix two parts baking soda and one part hydrogen peroxide (1-3% strength) to make a paste. Brush your teeth with the mixture for one to two minutes, and then rinse your mouth with water.
   • Be sure to use 3% or less hydrogen peroxide. Avoid brushing your teeth with hydrogen peroxide and baking soda more than once a week.
   • If you experience a burning sensation, stop brushing your teeth and rinse your mouth with cool water. Do not use this method if you have a recession or if your gums are sensitive, as hydrogen peroxide can irritate and damage exposed roots.

   Safety tip: it is important to rinse your mouth thoroughly after using hydrogen peroxide. Even diluted solution can cause vomiting and stomach upset if swallowed. In addition, even a small amount of peroxide left in your mouth can discolor your teeth and lead to uneven whitening.

   
   
2. 2 Brush your teeth with a mixture of baking soda and fluoride toothpaste. Squeeze regular toothpaste onto your toothbrush and sprinkle a pinch of baking soda on top. Brush your teeth as usual for two minutes with gentle circular motions. Then spit it out and, if you need to rinse out the rest of the mixture, rinse your mouth with a little water.
   • As with the previous method, brush your teeth with a mixture of baking soda and toothpaste in moderation. At first, use the mixture every other day for one to two weeks, and then brush your teeth with baking soda a maximum of one to two times a week.
   • You can also purchase toothpaste that already contains baking soda.
   • If you have sensitive teeth or enamel erosion, do not use toothpastes that contain baking soda or that are marketed as whitening.
3. 3 Rinse your mouth with baking soda and water. Pour 240 ml of water into a glass, add one teaspoon (6 grams) of baking soda and stir until the soda is evenly distributed. Take a sip, rinse your mouth for about 30 seconds, and then spit it out. Repeat the procedure until the glass is empty.
   • Rinsing your mouth with baking soda does not erode the enamel, so it can be done daily.
   • Rinsing your mouth with baking soda can indirectly whiten your teeth. Baking soda neutralizes acids, which helps fight tooth enamel erosion caused by acidic foods and drinks. Baking soda is also helpful in fighting the bacteria that cause decay and encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria that build up a protective layer on your teeth.

Tips

• Never use baking soda or hydrogen peroxide to clean your gums.
• Don't rub one area for too long. Spread evenly from one to one and a half minutes to brush your upper teeth, and then repeat the same on your lower teeth.
• Remember not to brush your teeth with a mixture of baking soda and lemon juice or other acidic substances.

Warnings

• See your dentist if you are concerned about tooth whiteness. Stains or loss of natural discoloration can be signs of problems requiring professional dental care.
• Do not brush your teeth with baking soda or abrasive toothpastes if you have sensitive teeth, as this may indicate erosion of the tooth enamel. Brushing your teeth with abrasive products will only make the situation worse.
• Do not brush your teeth with baking soda or hydrogen peroxide if you are wearing braces or a permanent retainer.
• To prevent uneven whitening or damage to your teeth, do not use hydrogen peroxide or home whitening kits if you have crowns, exposed dental pads, or veneers.