Growing up, you may have always heard your parents tell you to clean your teeth using a toothbrush. And they are correct. Using a good toothbrush and toothpaste is the perfect way to clean bacteria, plaque, and tartar off your teeth and gums. However, you may sometimes get stuck in situations where you do not have access to a toothbrush.
If you have forgotten to take your toothbrush on a trip or have lost one, there are other ways to clean your teeth. However, remember that these methods should only be used temporarily, and you should buy a toothbrush as soon as possible. If you or your child need a dental checkup, visit a family dentist in Lakeview, Chicago, today.
How to clean your teeth without a toothbrush
- Water.
Water is probably the easiest and most convenient way to clean your teeth since you can access it anywhere and anytime. Simply take a glass of water, pour the water into your mouth, and rinse thoroughly. Moving the water inside your mouth forcefully will allow the food particles stuck between your teeth to move and wash away. Water will allow the level of your mouth’s acidity to return to normal. Finally, spit the water.
- Paper towel.
If you do not have a toothbrush, you could always use a paper towel as an alternative until you can buy one. Wrap a piece of thick paper towel around your index finger tightly. Take some toothpaste if you have any, and clean your teeth and gums in the same way you use a toothbrush. If you do not have any toothpaste, you can simply rub the paper towel over the surface of your teeth to clean plaque, bacteria, and tartar.
- Baking soda.
If you know of the many DIY oral care hacks, you may know that baking soda is excellent for your teeth. Before toothpaste, people used baking soda to clean their teeth. Mix some baking soda with a bit of water until it forms a thick paste. Apply the paste evenly over your teeth and leave for a few minutes. Finally, rinse your mouth properly and ensure you do not swallow any of the baking soda.
- Use your finger.
If you are unable to find a paper towel or baking soda, you can simply take pea-sized toothpaste on your finger to brush off the plaque and food particles from your teeth. Since fingers have a naturally rough surface, you may be able to clean the bacteria. After you are done with your teeth, use your fingers to clean the surface of your gums.
