What are Toothbrush and Toothpaste 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 the alternatives.  The best bet if you are considering alternative methods of cleaning your teeth is to call our Dentists in Dearborn, or our Brownstown Office.  

Things to know when choosing toothbrush or toothpaste Alternative.

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.

We’ve got you covered.