Baking soda, also called bicarbonate of soda, is a common item in most kitchens. It’s not just for cooking and cleaning; it’s also a low-cost remedy for many everyday health issues. One way baking soda can help is by keeping your mouth healthy. When the body has too much acid, it can cause problems, especially in the mouth. Baking soda helps balance the acid levels in the body, and it’s as simple as making a baking soda mouth wash!
What causes bad breath?
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a problem that can make people feel self-conscious. It’s often caused by leftover bits of acidic foods, like sugary or protein-rich foods, sticking to the teeth, tongue, and mouth. Sadly, having bad breath can make you feel embarrassed and less sure of yourself. The good news is, a solution might be right in your kitchen. Yes, baking soda can help freshen your breath by balancing the acid in your mouth.
Can baking soda really handle your bad breath problems?
Baking soda is an alkaline substance that balances the high acid levels in your mouth, which can cause bad breath.
- It also has properties that kill bacteria in the mouth.
- And because it’s not acidic, it doesn’t harm your teeth, gums, or bones.
How can baking soda help eliminate bad breath?
You can use baking soda in several ways to help with bad breath. For instance, you can create a baking soda rinse by mixing half a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water!
Other ways to eliminate bad breath with baking soda:
Brushing with baking soda and toothpaste
Mix half a teaspoon of baking soda with your regular toothpaste, apply it to your toothbrush, and brush your teeth. Repeat this every other day for a week. This special toothpaste works wonders for cleaning your teeth and mouth, helping to solve the problem of bad breath.
Rinsing mouth with baking soda
Put baking soda powder in warm water and let it dissolve. This simple mouthwash helps eliminate bad smells in your mouth by killing the bacteria. Gargle with this solution for 30 seconds to a minute for the best results. Use the baking soda mouth rinse every day for a few days.
Baking soda and apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is the best vinegar for fighting bad breath, and it also balances the pH level in your mouth. Combine 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a cup of water. Rinse your mouth with this mix for a few seconds, then spit it out. Repeat this two or three times a week.
Baking soda and lemon
The acid in lemon kills the bacteria that cause bad breath. In a glass, mix one teaspoon of baking soda, the juice of one lemon, and half a cup of water. Blend it all together. Rinse your mouth with 1-2 tablespoons of this mix for a minute, then rinse your mouth with plain water. Do this once or twice a day to say goodbye to bad breath.
Baking soda with salt
Just like baking soda, salt can balance the pH in your stomach and has germ-fighting properties. Combine 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of water to keep bad breath away. Gargle with this mix for about a minute. Do this every other day until the bad breath disappears.
Baking soda and Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a strong germ-killing agent that’s used to remove bacteria from the mouth and freshen breath. Combine 1 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide and 1 teaspoon of baking soda in half a cup of water. Rinse your mouth with this mixture, and repeat every other day for a week.
Other Conditions Where Baking Soda is Useful and Can Keep Your Mouth Healthy
There are plenty of oral conditions where baking soda is helpful, such as:
Mouth ulcers and sores
Mouth ulcers and sores can hurt and bother you for a long time. Baking soda can help them heal and make them feel better. Combine one or two teaspoons of baking soda in a glass of water to create a relaxing mouth rinse.
Gum disease
Gum disease, also known as gingivitis, makes your gums sore, swollen, and bleed, and can cause bad breath. If not treated, it can lead to big problems. This occurs when plaque accumulates on your teeth. Baking soda stops plaque from forming and helps prevent gum disease. Brush your teeth once or twice daily with baking soda, or use toothpaste that contains baking soda.
Teeth whitening
Teeth can get stained from food, drinks, smoking, and alcohol. Baking soda can whiten teeth by removing these stains. That’s why it’s in many whitening toothpastes. To whiten your teeth, wet your toothbrush, dip it in baking soda, shake off the extra, and then brush your teeth well. For optimal results, brush your teeth two times a day using baking soda.
Try Baking Soda for a Healthier Smile
For a healthier mouth and fresher breath, try using baking soda in these simple ways. From fighting bad breath to preventing gum disease and whitening teeth, baking soda can be a low-cost solution to common oral health issues. Give it a try and discover the natural benefits of baking soda for your oral hygiene routine.