Alternative Ways to Brush Your Teeth

Even as a dental team, we can understand that it’s hard to maintain a solid routine of teeth brushing throughout the day. Many people aren’t home when they eat lunch, thus it makes it hard to brush your teeth after. If you stay at your partner’s place, or a relative’s, and you realize you forgot your toothbrush, what do you do? While brushing your teeth is the first line of defense against plaque build up and cavities, sometimes you need to look for alternative ways to clean your teeth.
When it comes to brushing your teeth, the most important aspect of your toothbrush is the abrasive touch that helps loosen and remove plaque and debris. The slightly abrasive surface is perfect for scraping off any particles that shouldn’t be around. If you want to have a good set of clean teeth and you’re missing a toothbrush, you can use several common household items to assist you.

Paper Towel

Use a small square of a paper towel and add a small dab of toothpaste. These days, paper towels are strong enough that they won’t fall apart if they get a little moist. You can easily use if to “buff” your teeth so to speak. This is a simple method that works fairly well, though it can be hard to reach far back in the mouth with a paper towel.

Q-Tip

However, a Q-tip has a little better reach and can also be used as an alternative method to brushing your teeth. Again, use a small dab of toothpaste on the tip of the Q-tip. With a Q-tip, we do recommend brushing softer than you normally would. The cotton tip is delicate and can begin to fall apart if used too much.

Finger

The most common method to brush without a brush is a simple finger. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly first, you don’t want to be sending more bacteria into your mouth than you need to. Use an index finger to softly loosen plaque and debris from your teeth. This method is simple but only so effective.
After any of these options, rinse your mouth out thoroughly with water. The water is a great way to flush all loose- and some not-so-loose- plaque out of your mouth; try rinsing and spitting several times for maximum effect.
Of course, if you don’t have your toothbrush, you should see if the people you are staying with are willing to share any floss or mouthwash. Both are not considered an alternative to your toothbrush, but if you can use both products on a night without your brush, you’re well on your way to a clean smile.
If none of these products are available, there is a simple method to employ.
Gargling salt-water is a great way to flush bacteria our of your mouth. Salt’s natural anti-bacterial qualities can help eliminate some of the plaque in your mouth. Just use a teaspoon of salt for every 8 ounces of water. This is the least one might be able to do on a night away from their oral hygiene products.
The best method we recommend for long-lasting, bright smiles is to always come prepared. Try to always remember a toothbrush and some floss. Keep an extra brush in your backpack or purse. Travel toothbrushes are available and come in compact packaging for mobility. Brushing, flossing, and mouthwash can go a long way when caring for your teeth, and we recommend staying diligent in your practices.
If you have any more questions, don’t hesitate to contact Water Tower Dental Care today.