Baking soda, lemon mixture does not cure mouth odour

Claim: A Facebook user, Joy’s Hair and Harmony, posted a video claiming that a mixture of warm water, baking soda, and lemon can cure mouth odour.

Verdict: Misleading. While some ingredients in the mixture, particularly baking soda, may temporarily reduce bad breath, there is no scientific evidence that this combination cures mouth odour. 

Full Text

On Dec. 20, 2025, a Facebook user, Joy’s Hair and Harmony, posted a video claiming that a mixture of warm water, baking soda, and lemon can cure mouth odour. As of Dec. 20, 2025, the post had garnered over 2,000 likes, 22 shares, and 45 comments.

Some reactions to the post reflected a mix of curiosity and caution. Mai Didi commented, “Won’t this destroy the good bacteria? But thank you.” Jean Eagle asked, “Can you use lime instead of lemon?” 

Oguche Joy wrote, “Thank you so much for sharing this!” and Se Rious wrote, “Just use mouthwash.”

DUBAWA decided to fact-check this claim given its widespread engagement and the potential influence of unverified information on people’s oral hygiene.

 What Science Says

Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), according to Healthline, has mild antibacterial and acid-neutralising properties. Clinical studies show that products and rinses containing baking soda can reduce short-term oral malodor. Baking soda neutralises acidic conditions in the mouth and can reduce volatile sulfur compounds that contribute to bad breath.

However, these effects are temporary and rely on good overall oral hygiene.

According to the Oral Health Foundation, lemon juice is highly acidic, which can weaken tooth enamel over time. Frequent exposure to acids in citrus juices increases sensitivity and the risk of cavities.

Although research indicates that using ingredients like baking soda, as well as practices such as hydration, brushing, and flossing, may help manage components of bad breath, there is no research proving that warm water with baking soda and lemon cures halitosis (mouth odour). Halitosis often stems from deeper causes such as gum disease, bacterial buildup on the tongue, dry mouth, tooth decay, or even underlying medical conditions. Treating the root cause is key. 

Experts Opinions

A dental technologist and orthodontic specialist, Mary Atere, said, “There can be hereditary reasons for mouth odour. Remedies like warm water and baking soda may not work if the root cause is not addressed. Dental calculus and periodontal disease can also cause halitosis, so these factors must be properly managed. Excess acidity in the mouth can lead to tooth chipping.”

Isaac Adeyemi, a dentist, added, “The claim is false. The treatment for mouth odour depends on its cause. It could be due to poor oral hygiene, tongue or gum issues, tooth decay, tonsil problems, or even a symptom of another underlying disease. The only reliable solution is to visit a dental clinic for a proper examination and treatment.”

Conclusion

The claim that a mixture of warm water, baking soda, and lemon can cure mouth odour is misleading. While baking soda may provide temporary relief, lemon’s acidity can harm teeth, and the mixture does not address the underlying causes of halitosis. Proper oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and tongue cleaning, and professional dental care, remains the safest and most effective way to manage bad breath.