Picking a Toothbrush and Toothpaste: What Are the Alternatives? - Dental Studio Colleyville Colleyville Texas (2024)

FAQs

What is an alternative for a toothbrush? ›

Don't worry; you can still get clean teeth with a little resourcefulness - a paper towel, twig, baking soda, mouthwash, or even your finger can help you serve as a toothbrush, or you can consume certain foods to keep your teeth clean.

Although toothbrushes with medium bristles have been shown to be effective at biofilm removal, the ADA recommends use of a toothbrush with soft bristles because they minimize the risk of gingival abrasion.

One week without brushing:

After a week, the enamel on your teeth will start to fail. The plaque that hasn't been removed will increase the development of bad breath. Cleaning a plaque-ridden tooth is difficult. If you don't brush your teeth for a week, you're more likely to develop cavities.

Gently Clean Gums

Make sure your loved one cleans his or her gums twice a day. This can be done with either a very soft toothbrush or a wet washcloth. Since the gums have a much softer surface than the teeth, your loved one doesn't need to apply a lot of pressure to clean them.

Bristle softness

As we age, our gums tend to become more sensitive. Therefore, seniors should consider using toothbrushes with soft bristles, which are gentler on the gums. Try to find toothbrushes labeled “soft” or “extra soft.”

When considering an electric toothbrush, it helps to have guidance from the professionals who set the standards of dental care. ADA-acceptance does just that by letting you know that Oral-B rises to the level of safety and effectiveness that dental professionals recommend.

Head Size And Shape

You should choose a toothbrush which allows for maximum manoeuvrability around your mouth. As a general rule, this will be a small or medium-sized brush head. This will allow you to reach the corners of your mouth more easily, cleaning even the most difficult to reach places.

Toothpaste that contains triclosan/copolymer is better than regular fluoride toothpastes at killing the kinds of bacteria that live in people's mouths, according to a new study. The human mouth is home to an estimated 800 to 1,000 different kinds of bacteria.

How do you get plaque off your teeth without a toothbrush? ›

After even longer without brushing or flossing your teeth, tooth decay can advance into the inner layers of your teeth, causing more enamel to be broken down and exposing the soft parts (the dentin). The tooth pulp can also become exposed, which can lead to a higher risk for tooth pain and sensitivity.

Use a Scraper (Not a Toothbrush)

However, tongue scrapers or cleaners, with their lower profile, are easier to use. They allow you to get further back along your tongue without touching the sensitive roof of the mouth.

If you're out camping with the family without a toothbrush, you can scout out a green twig. Clean it as well as you can and chew on the end until the fibers fray. You'll have yourself a homemade toothbrush to glide across your teeth.

Many people with sensory issues find electric toothbrushes gentler for their teeth and gums. Pay attention to the material of the toothbrush (avoid harsh nylon bristles), shape, and size. Smaller toothbrush heads can also feel less overwhelming in your mouth.