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Whether you’re out traveling or you’re stuck at home, running out of toothpaste can be a huge bummer. Fortunately, there are a few ways you can “brush” your teeth even if you don’t have the essentials nearby. Take a look at this list to learn how you can keep your teeth clean for a few days until you can go out to grab some toothpaste again.
Things You Should Know
- In a pinch, use plain water, baking soda, or a mixture of sea salt and water on your brush to replace toothpaste.
- The bristle action of your toothbrush removes plaque and disrupts bacteria, so using toothpaste isn’t always necessary to clean your teeth.
- To freshen your breath without toothpaste, use mouthwash, chew sugar-free gum, or drink a cup of black or green tea after meals.
Steps
Expert Q&A
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QuestionShould I hold my nose while brushing?Dr. Macau is a Doctor of Dental Surgery based in London, England. Dr. Macau is an oral surgeon, periodontist, and aesthetician at Favero Dental Clinic where he is known for his cosmetic dentistry and facial aesthetics work. He is actively involved in scientific research in the field of dentistry and he received his DDS from Carol Davila University of Medicine in 2015.Holding your nose while brushing is not necessary. Having a clear view in the mirror and being able to feel every area of your teeth and gums while brushing it is more important. If you don't like the taste of your toothpaste, try looking for a different flavor or making your own, adding flavors you enjoy.
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QuestionIt's good to brush my teeth with coconut oil?Dr. Macau is a Doctor of Dental Surgery based in London, England. Dr. Macau is an oral surgeon, periodontist, and aesthetician at Favero Dental Clinic where he is known for his cosmetic dentistry and facial aesthetics work. He is actively involved in scientific research in the field of dentistry and he received his DDS from Carol Davila University of Medicine in 2015.Coconut oil is a natural ingredient which has many advantages when it is used as a toothpaste. Besides an antibacterial and whitening effect, it provides a lasting protection of enamel. You should though avoid using it if you are allergic to coconut.
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Tips
- Try not to depend on any of these methods alone. The best way to keep your teeth clean is to brush twice a day with real toothpaste. [9] X Research sourceThanks
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References
- ↑ https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/brushing-and-flossing/hacks-forget-toothpaste
- ↑ https://jada.ada.org/article/S0002-8177(17)30822-X/fulltext
- ↑ https://www.smilepointdentalcare.com/what-can-i-use-instead-of-toothpaste/
- ↑ https://www.padentalimplants.com/how-to-clean-teeth-without-a-toothbrush/
- ↑ https://www.padentalimplants.com/how-to-clean-teeth-without-a-toothbrush/
- ↑ https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/w/water-flossers
- ↑ https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=1&contentid=4062
- ↑ https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=1&contentid=4062
- ↑ https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/b/brushing-your-teeth
About This Article
Article Summary
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If you need to brush your teeth but you don’t have any toothpaste, try brushing with items you find around the house instead. For instance, if you have sea salt, you could dip your wet toothbrush into 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, then gently brush your teeth. Sea salt has antibacterial properties and can neutralize acids that cause tooth decay, but it can also be very abrasive, so don’t use it on your teeth regularly. Other household ingredients you could use include baking soda, natural soap, and coconut oil. Keep reading to learn advice from our dental reviewer on how to make your own toothpaste or tooth powder!
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"Just looking for a natural non-fluoride way to keep clean teeth and a healthy mouth."
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