Creating your own baking soda toothpaste at home is a simple and effective way to maintain oral hygiene without the chemicals found in many commercial products. Homemade baking soda toothpaste helps gently remove plaque and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Below, you’ll find a guide on how to make your own baking soda toothpaste, along with an explanation of the potential ingredients you can use.
1. Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate)
Baking soda is a naturally occurring compound that acts as a mild abrasive in toothpaste. It’s known for its ability to dissolve without leaving any grit behind, making it ideal for gently scrubbing away plaque and surface stains from teeth. Additionally, baking soda is alkaline, which helps neutralize excess acids in the mouth that can contribute to tooth decay and bad breath.
How It’s Done
- Measure out the desired amount of baking soda.
- Mix it with a small amount of water to form a paste, or combine it with other ingredients to improve texture and flavor.
Benefits
- Effectively removes plaque and surface stains.
- Neutralizes acids in the mouth, promoting a healthier oral environment.
- Simple and inexpensive to use.
2. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a versatile substance with antimicrobial properties that help kill harmful microorganisms in the mouth, including bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease. It also gives toothpaste a smooth texture and helps hold other ingredients together.
How It’s Done
- Warm the coconut oil by placing the jar in hot water until it liquefies.
- Mix the liquid coconut oil with baking soda and other chosen ingredients until you achieve a smooth paste.
- Store the mixture in a jar and use it as toothpaste.
Benefits
- Provides a smooth mouthfeel and helps to bind other ingredients.
- Kills harmful bacteria and supports oral health.
- Can be used alone or combined with other ingredients for added benefits.
3. Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay is a finely powdered, naturally occurring clay that acts as a mild abrasive and detoxifier. It’s alkaline, which helps to neutralize acids in the mouth, and it contains trace minerals beneficial for oral health. However, if you have silver fillings, it’s best to avoid bentonite clay as its drawing properties could draw out mercury.
How It’s Done
- Measure the desired amount of bentonite clay.
- Mix it with baking soda, coconut oil, and other ingredients to form a paste.
Benefits
- Gently cleans teeth without causing damage to enamel.
- Helps neutralize acids in the mouth.
- Provides essential trace minerals.
4. Sweeteners (Stevia and Xylitol)
Stevia and xylitol are natural sweeteners that can make your toothpaste more palatable without promoting tooth decay. Stevia is a plant-based sweetener, while xylitol is a sugar alcohol that bacteria cannot metabolize, which helps reduce their presence in the mouth.
How It’s Done
- Add a small amount of powdered stevia or xylitol to your toothpaste mixture.
- Adjust the amount to achieve your desired level of sweetness.
Benefits
- Improves the taste of your homemade toothpaste.
- Helps reduce bacteria in the mouth.
- Safe for dental health.
Basic Baking Soda Toothpaste Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons baking soda
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (melted)
- 10 drops peppermint essential oil (or other essential oils)
- 1 teaspoon xylitol or stevia (optional)
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: Combine baking soda and coconut oil in a small bowl.
- Add Essential Oils: Add the peppermint essential oil and stir until well combined.
- Sweeten: If using, add the xylitol or stevia and mix thoroughly.
- Store: Transfer the mixture to a small jar with a lid. Keep at room temperature.
How to Use
- Scoop about ½ teaspoon of the homemade toothpaste onto your toothbrush.
- Brush your teeth thoroughly, making sure to reach all surfaces.
- The paste will liquefy in your mouth, so there is no need to add water.
- Swish the liquid around your mouth to ensure it reaches all areas, then spit and rinse with water.