Using bicarbonate of soda to whiten teeth
Bicarbonate of soda can remove some surface stain, but it does not bleach the internal colour of a tooth.
Can bicarbonate of soda whiten the inside of a tooth?
Bicarbonate of soda can remove some surface stain, but it does not bleach the internal colour of a tooth.
How can bicarbonate of soda affect surface stains?
Sodium bicarbonate can loosen external deposits and stains on enamel. Rough or frequent scrubbing may irritate gums, wear exposed dentine, and make sensitivity noticeable.
What should you use for everyday tooth cleaning?
Use a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste for routine cleaning. A dentist can distinguish food stain, calculus, decay, fluorosis, and restoration colour.
When should unusual tooth colour or gum symptoms be checked?
Arrange care for a single dark tooth, chalky patches, pain, sensitivity, or bleeding gums.
What should you ask about the cause of tooth discolouration?
Ask whether the colour is surface stain or a change within the tooth and which cleaning or whitening method fits.
Frequently asked questions
Does it bleach teeth?
No. It mainly acts on surface deposits rather than internal tooth colour.
Can it replace toothpaste?
Routine brushing should use fluoride toothpaste rather than aggressive powder scrubbing.
Who wrote this page
This library is published by Dental Nation, a licensed dental group practising in the United Arab Emirates. Pages are written and overseen by the same clinical team that treats patients in our clinics, and are held to a fixed editorial standard for safety and accuracy.
This page is patient education, not medical advice, and cannot replace an examination. Anything urgent — facial swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain — needs a dentist or emergency care now.