Or maybe, don’t.
Bicarbonate of soda is an abrasive substance which, whilst removing mild staining of the teeth, can degrade tooth enamel.
Sustained and vigorous use of bicarb will corrupt this essential element of your teeth and could in fact create a roughened surface that will ultimately be more receptive to staining.
A chemical compound, chromogens, give some food and drinks their distinct colour which in turn can stain our teeth. Tannins, contained in tea, coffee, red wine and chocolate, and acids present in most carbonated drinks also have a detrimental effect on the brightness and whiteness of our teeth.
Clean white teeth are a fantastic addition to one’s appearance; the BEST ways to achieve this outcome are:
- Twice daily cleaning of your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss. Every day!
- Avoid food and drink prone to staining and degrading tooth enamel. If you cannot limit your intake, try rinsing your mouth with water after a meal; take some drinks via a straw to minimise exposure to your teeth; or find less harmful options such as flavoured water, milk or herbal teas.
- Boost the presence of saliva, mother nature’s stain remover, by eating crisp vegetables and fruit, e.g. carrots, celery, apples or cucumber.
- Chew a gum that contains the sugar substitute xylitol, to stimulate saliva production.
- Visit your dentist and hygienist regularly. In addition to standard dental treatments, at Viva Dental Studio we have a proven track record in providing a range of highly successful whitening procedures.
If you have tried the bicarb ‘hack’ and discovered it does not match the online hype… contact the team at Viva Dental Studio today to discuss just how easy effective teeth whitening can be.
And keep the bicarb for baking.