Picking a Toothbrush and Toothpaste: What Are the Alternatives?

When picking a toothbrush and toothpaste, there are many things that should be considered. Some people might even find themselves wondering if using a toothbrush with toothpaste does much more than other alternatives.

The reality is: Toothpaste is an essential part of good oral hygiene. A quality toothpaste does a better job than other alternatives, like baking soda, to clean teeth, and a toothbrush is better designed to handle all the contours of a person's teeth than, say, a piece of cloth.

Things to know when not picking a toothbrush and toothpaste

There are several alternatives that people who are not interested in picking a toothbrush or toothpaste use. Some of the more popular ones include:

1. Baking soda

This easily available product is one of the most popular alternatives to toothpaste. Using it is not much different than using regular toothpaste. The person simply dips their toothbrush in baking soda and brushes the teeth just like one would do with toothpaste. Some prefer to dissolve the powder in salt water, then dip their brush in the solution.

Baking soda can be combined with mints and oil for fresher breath. Baking soda has strong whitening properties and can help remove stains on teeth. However, it is an abrasive substance and can damage teeth enamel when used often. In addition, baking soda does not contain fluoride, so those who use it regularly might not be getting enough fluoride to protect their enamel.

2. Tooth soap

It is actually possible to clean teeth with soap. The detergents in the soap help remove food particles and plaque. How pleasant it tastes is a completely different story. However, there are specialized soaps that are made specifically for brushing, and these taste much better.

3. Dry brushing

It is possible to adequately clean teeth brushing without any toothpaste. The frictional forces created by the brush's bristles are what removes food particles and plaque in the first place. Using a product with a toothbrush simply provides a better level of hygiene.

4. Coconut oil

Here is another household item that can be used to clean teeth. Coconut oil is particularly effective, since it has antibacterial and antifungal properties. When combined with other items like baking soda, coconut oil can actually be a very effective way to clean teeth. The only issue would be getting used to having an oily mouth.

Toothbrush alternatives

Some people are not huge fans of toothbrushes and would rather clean their teeth with other items. Here are common alternatives to cleaning teeth with a toothbrush:

1. Washcloth or paper towel

A washcloth or piece of paper towel can be used to effectively clean teeth. It is often best to use one that has a rough surface. The cloth is wrapped around the person's index finger, and toothpaste or other cleaner is added to it. The cloth is then used to brush just like one would do with a toothbrush.

2. Twigs

These are actually the original toothbrush. Twigs have been used to clean teeth for millennia. Teeth twigs can be purchased from specialty stores.

Want to learn more about toothbrush and toothpaste alternatives? Schedule an appointment with one of our dentists today.

What are you waiting for?

Request a dental appointment here: http://austinlakesdentistry.com or call Austin Lakes Dentistry: Scott T Gordon DDS at (512) 266-1308 for an appointment in our Austin dental office.