April 22nd is Earth Day – it’s just around the corner! As a result, you may feel extremely inspired to do your part to protect the planet. Fortunately, getting involved is as easy as switching up your dental care tools. To learn a few orthodontist-approved and eco-friendly oral hygiene products, read on!
#1. An Electric Toothbrush
Did you know that your toothbrush can become a breeding ground for bacteria? That’s why the American Dental Association recommends replacing it every 3-4 months. As you can imagine, that’s quite a bit of wasted plastic. Fortunately, electric ones allow you to just switch out the head, cutting back significantly on the number of toothbrushes that are thrown away each year. Prefer manual toothbrushes? Try a bamboo one. After all, this material is durable, grows quickly, and is biodegradable!
#2. Eco-Friendly Floss
Both floss and the container it comes in are comprised of plastic. So, while single-use picks are extremely convenient, they aren’t the best for the environment. With this in mind, try out a biodegradable silk option! Even better, purchase one that comes in a glass or cardboard container. That way, you can effectively clean your teeth and along your gumline while cutting out plastic entirely.
#3. Mouthwash Tablets
Fortunately, there is an eco-friendly alternative for nearly everything nowadays, including mouthwash. Instead of buying this gingivitis-fighting mixture in a large plastic container, you can opt for zero-waste tablets. Simply drop one in a glass of water, allow it to dissolve, and rinse as usual!
#4. Be Mindful of Water Use
While water isn’t necessarily an oral hygiene “product,” it does play an important role in your dental care regimen. After all, how else would you wet your toothbrush, rinse your mouth out, or dissolve your zero-waste mouthwash tablets? Unfortunately, many patients have gotten into the habit of keeping their sink running continuously as they brush. By switching it off, you can save about 200 gallons of water each month!
With Earth Day around the corner, now is a great time to take a look at the products you use and see where you can adjust. Start small by switching up some of your oral hygiene tools! Remember, even a minor change can make a big difference.
About the Practice
Richardson Orthodontics is here to help patients have a positive orthodontic experience and achieve beautiful smiles. To do this, our board-certified orthodontist offers a wide range of treatment options, convenient appointment times, and 5-star care. Every step of the way, we will answer your questions and share tips on how to navigate life with braces seamlessly, including eco-friendly tools and habits we recommend. If you have a question about at-home oral hygiene or would like to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (972) 238-7101.