Overview
Sodium Bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, is a natural compound with well-documented oral health benefits. It is widely recognized for its ability to neutralize acids, reduce plaque accumulation, and freshen breath — making it a trusted ingredient in both conventional and natural oral care formulations.

Why It’s Included in DentiMints™
In the DentiMints™ formulation, sodium bicarbonate plays several key roles:

• Balances oral pH to prevent acid-related enamel erosion
• Neutralizes acids produced by bacteria and acidic foods
• Helps reduce plaque formation by disrupting bacterial adhesion
• Supports fresh breath by reducing the acidic environment in which odor-causing bacteria thrive

These properties make it ideal for waterless, on-the-go oral care, where rinsing isn’t an option but maintaining a clean, healthy oral environment is still essential.

Mechanism of Action in Oral Health
Sodium bicarbonate works as a buffering agent, neutralizing the acids produced by carbohydrate-fermenting bacteria like Streptococcus mutans. These acids are responsible for enamel demineralization and bad breath. By keeping the oral environment closer to a neutral pH, sodium bicarbonate helps protect enamel and discourage harmful bacterial growth.

It also has mild abrasive properties, which can assist in removing surface debris and enhancing the effectiveness of other ingredients in the formulation.

Supporting Research

• A 2017 review in the Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) concluded that sodium bicarbonate effectively neutralizes plaque acids and contributes to plaque removal when used in toothpaste.
• Studies have shown that baking soda-based oral care products support overall oral cleanliness without causing significant enamel abrasion.
• Sodium bicarbonate mouth rinses are frequently recommended for individuals with dry mouth or high caries risk due to its buffering capacity and safety.

Conclusion
Sodium Bicarbonate is a foundational oral care ingredient that offers both preventive and protective benefits. In DentiMints™, it supports a balanced oral pH, discourages harmful bacterial activity, and helps keep the mouth feeling clean and refreshed — all without requiring brushing or rinsing.