The internet is full of weird and wonderful hacks for just about everything, and dental treatments are no exception. One of the most enduring how-tos is “whitening teeth with baking soda and lemon juice”. You’ve probably seen the articles and videos promising whiter teeth in minutes, at a fraction of the cost of professional teeth whitening. Most involve mixing baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) with lemon juice to form a paste that’s applied to teeth then brushed away.
With so many people recommending this natural teeth whitening remedy and showing off their own dramatic results, you might wonder if it’s really effective. The short answer is yes, baking soda and lemon juice *will* whiten your teeth, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe.
How Baking Soda and Lemon Juice Work to Whiten Teeth
Baking soda is abrasive, and lemon juice is acidic. When combined, they form a destructive duo that corrodes tooth enamel. This mixture will undoubtedly remove surface stains, but it will also damage the protective layer of your teeth in the process.
The Role of Baking Soda
Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a mild abrasive. It can help remove surface stains from your teeth. Additionally, baking soda can help in supporting a more alkaline oral pH, which reduces the populations of bad bacteria in the mouth.
The Role of Lemon Juice
Lemon juice has a citric acid which is a natural bleaching agent. The proponents of using baking soda and lemon juice for teeth whitening maintain that, as a base, the baking soda will neutralize the high acidity of the lemon juice.
The Dangers of Using Baking Soda and Lemon Juice
While baking soda and lemon juice might seem like a quick and easy solution for teeth whitening, there are significant risks to consider.
Enamel Erosion
Enamel is there to defend your teeth, and once it’s gone, it’s gone forever. When your enamel thins, your dentine begins to show through. Dentine is yellow, so your teeth could look more discolored than before. What’s more, without your enamel, you’ll be prone to problems such as sensitivity and tooth decay.
Lemon juice is highly acidic, with a pH level nearly close to 2. This acidity can erode the protective enamel layer of your teeth, which is the hard, outer surface that protects the underlying dentin and pulp. Enamel erosion can lead to increased sensitivity and even tooth decay.
Uneven Whitening and Discoloration
While the lemon juice and baking soda mixture may initially whiten your teeth, the uneven application and prolonged use can lead to uneven whitening, creating a patchy or blotchy appearance. Additionally, the erosion of enamel can cause intrinsic discoloration, making your teeth appear darker over time.
Gum Damage and Sensitivity
The acidic nature of lemon juice can also irritate and damage your gums. Prolonged exposure to it can cause inflammation, gum recession, and even gum erosion, which can ultimately lead to tooth loss if left untreated. As the enamel erodes, the underlying dentin layer becomes exposed, leading to increased tooth sensitivity. This can make your teeth more sensitive to hot, cold, sweet, and acidic foods and beverages, causing discomfort and pain during eating or drinking.
Lack of Scientific Evidence
There are plenty of studies that back up the idea that baking soda cleans your teeth, but unfortunately, there aren’t any to suggest that lemon juice does the same. In fact, one study concluded that lemon juice actually eats away at the enamel on your teeth, making them more vulnerable to damage. Also, there’s no evidence that baking soda completely neutralizes the acidity of lemon juice. It’s also very hard to know whether you have the right ratio of acid to base when making your own paste at home.
Safer Ways to Whiten Your Teeth
If you’re looking for a safe and effective way to whiten your teeth, there are several options to consider:
- Professional Teeth Whitening: Professional teeth whitening treatments use approved products and techniques that are designed to whiten your teeth while minimizing the risk of enamel erosion and other dental problems. Your treatment will be supervised by a dental professional, and they’ll start by assessing your teeth and gums to make sure you’re a suitable candidate.
- Over-the-Counter Whitening Products: There are many over-the-counter whitening products available, such as whitening toothpaste and mouthwash. When choosing these products, check for the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
- Good Oral Hygiene Practices: Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing regularly, and limiting your consumption of acidic and staining foods and beverages, can help maintain a bright and healthy smile. A visit to the hygienist is also a great, cost-effective way to keep your teeth sparkling clean and healthy.
Conclusion
While the idea of using lemon and baking soda to whiten teeth might be tempting, the risks far outweigh any potential benefits. The combination of these two ingredients can cause significant damage to your enamel, leading to sensitivity, discoloration, and other dental problems. There are many safer and more effective ways to achieve a brighter smile without risking your oral health.