In a world where we are becoming more and more environmentally conscious, many people are ditching plastic products for their sustainable counterparts. This is great news for the environment, but what does it mean for our mouths? Our teeth can’t be healthy without proper oral care! Here are seven ways to keep your mouth fresh and clean when you’re going plastic-free.
The Two-Minute Rule
There are several simple steps you can take to promote good oral hygiene when using non-plastic products. The first is brushing your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day with the right amount of toothpaste (a pea-size). It’s also important to floss every day and use mouthwash or saltwater rinses. These habits will help remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums.
Invest in a Good Toothbrush
Just like any other tool, you need to invest in a good quality toothbrush that will do the job properly. There are many eco-friendly toothbrush options on the market made with sustainable materials like bamboo. Be sure to look for a toothbrush with soft bristles to avoid damaging your gums.
You should be brushing your teeth twice a day with the correct size brush. You can tell what to use by looking at how long it is: short brushes are for kids, medium brushes are for adults, and longer ones (known as “neck”) are designed specifically for back molars. There is a wide range of eco-friendly brushes in all sizes and with all levels of bristle firmness. Look for a toothbrush that is completely biodegradable like wood or cornstarch. Also, ensure the bristles are made from biodegradable nylon or bamboo.
In-Shower Mouthwash
Another way to keep your mouth clean is by using a rinse that’s made before you shower. You can mix up saltwater and swish it around in your mouth for thirty seconds before spitting it out, or just use water mixed with baking soda (a teaspoon per litre). After the shower, you can use a toothbrush to remove any remaining plaque and bacteria. Another eco alternative is to use mouthwash tablets which are zero waste and lovely and minty!
Staying Hydrated
Keeping your mouth fresh starts with water! Drinking enough of it ensures that the saliva in your mouth is healthy, which naturally reduces inflammation and cavities. Try drinking around eight ounces or a glass per day (or more if you exercise every day). Of course, drink from a glass or a reusable bottle, avoid single-use plastic bottles!
Chew on This
You can also keep your mouth clean by chewing on certain foods and snacks. Sugar-free gum is a great option because it increases saliva flow, which helps to remove food particles and bacteria from your teeth. Another good choice is raw vegetables like carrots and celery, which help to scrub your teeth clean as you chew. Just be sure to brush afterwards to remove any plaque that may have been left behind.
Brushing Your Tongue
Doing so not only removes bacteria but also freshens your breath! It’s recommended that you brush your tongue twice a day. This can be done before brushing teeth in the morning and after eating dinner at night.
Use An Eco Floss
When it comes to dental floss, there are many sustainable and eco-friendly floss options available. You can find refillable glass floss containers or compostable cardboard ones. There are also bamboo picks and wooden toothpicks that can be used instead of plastic disposables. If you prefer, you can also make your own dental floss at home with some simple ingredients.
If you’re not using plastic dental floss, consider switching to an eco-friendly option such as silk or cotton. Make sure the floss comes in a non-plastic box, like a glass jar or biodegradable packaging. Also, ensure the floss is natural and biodegradable.
If you are looking for a way to keep your mouth fresh and clean without the use of plastic, there are plenty of options available. The 6 tips we’ve provided should give you some ideas on how to do so in an environmentally friendly manner that still promotes good oral hygiene. If all this sounds too difficult or overwhelming, let our team know! We specialise in finding eco-conscious products such as sustainable dental care like zero waste toothbrushes and bamboo flossers. What other ways have you found for keeping your teeth healthy while going green?
