Taking care of your teeth is important, but have you ever thought about how your oral care routine affects the planet? From plastic toothbrushes to wasteful water use, everyday dental habits can have a big environmental impact. The good news? You don’t have to choose between a healthy smile and a healthy planet. With just a few smart swaps, you can build a natural dental routine that’s good for your mouth and better for the earth.

Cut Plastic Waste with Smart Toothbrush Choices

Toothbrushes are something we all use every day, but most of them are made from plastic that gets tossed out every few months. The good news is that some options are better than others when it comes to reducing waste.

• Electric toothbrushes may seem less eco-friendly at first, but they actually create less plastic waste over time. Since you only replace the head (not the whole handle), you use a lot less plastic in the long run.
• Trusted dental care brand Philips has teamed up with TerraCycle to offer a recycling program that accepts used electric toothbrush heads, manual toothbrushes, water flosser nozzles, flossing sticks, interdental brushes, and even dental floss containers. It’s a great way to keep natural dental care items out of landfills while still using products that work well for your oral health.
• You can go with wooden or bamboo toothbrushes as a plastic-free option. These can work, especially if you’re looking for something compostable. Just make sure the brush has soft bristles and that you’re using gentle technique to avoid harming your gums or enamel.

Whether you prefer electric or manual, the best toothbrush is one that fits your needs and helps keep your natural teeth and restorations healthy!

Floss Smarter for Your Smile and the Planet

Flossing is key to keeping your gums healthy and preventing cavities between your teeth—but it can also create a lot of waste. Many flosses are made from plastic and may even contain PFAS, a group of chemicals linked to health concerns.

Instead, look for natural silk floss that’s coated with plant-based wax and labeled PFAS-free. Many come in refillable glass containers or recyclable plastic to help reduce packaging waste.

However, the most important thing is to use a floss you actually like. If it feels good and works for you, you’re more likely to use it every day, and that’s what truly keeps your mouth healthy.

Another great option is a water flosser. These use a small stream of water to clean between your teeth and are especially helpful for people with braces, sensitive gums, or limited dexterity. Water flossers create very little waste, and their nozzles last a long time before needing to be replaced (and if you use a WaterPik, you can send those nozzles to Phillips as part of their recycling initiative). Plus, they use only a small amount of water each day, making them a smart choice for eco-friendly, natural oral care.

Choose the Right Toothpaste

Toothpaste tablets and powders are becoming more popular because they usually come in recyclable or plastic-free containers. That’s great for the planet, but many of these products don’t include fluoride, which helps protect your teeth from cavities. If you’re thinking about using a natural tooth product, always check the label and make sure it contains fluoride unless your dentist says otherwise, or that you’re incorporating fluoride elsewhere in your oral care routine.

Natural toothpaste companies that have minimal waste packaging and fluoride formulas include:

• The Humble Co.
• Moon
• Bite
• Hello

Some of the more conventional brands like Colgate and Tom’s of Maine now offer toothpaste in recyclable tubes as well. However, not all toothpaste tubes are recyclable so be sure to check the label!

If you’re very concerned about fluoride, feel free to talk to us! We’re happy to address your concerns or help you find alternative anti-cavity options. For example, some products contain xylitol, a natural sugar that fights decay, or hydroxyapatite, a mineral complex that may help to strengthen enamel (although it still needs more research).

It’s worth noting that many natural toothpastes can be too abrasive. Some natural tooth powders and pastes use rough ingredients like charcoal or baking soda, which can wear down enamel or make sensitivity worse, especially if you have gum recession or enamel erosion. Stick with gentle products that clean well without damaging your teeth. When in doubt, ask our Orlando dental team for safe, natural dental product recommendations.

Use the Best Natural Mouthwash

If you use mouthwash, there are eco-friendly ways to do that too. Listerine, for example, may surprise you. It’s actually made from a blend of seven essential oils and has been used for over 100 years. It’s a simple, natural dental care option that’s effective and easy to find.

You can also look for rinses that come in glass bottles or refillable packaging but be sure to check the ingredients for safety and efficacy.

If you’re looking for a gentle and completely natural mouthwash you can make at home, try a saltwater rinse! Just mix about half a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water. It’s soothing, safe, and doesn’t require anything extra. (But use caution if you’re on a salt-restricted diet, of course.)

Save Water Every Time You Brush

One of the easiest and most helpful ways to go green is to turn off the water while brushing. Running water for two minutes, twice a day, adds up fast. Instead of letting it flow, wet your brush before you start, then shut the tap off until you’re ready to rinse.

Here are a couple of other simple ways to save water:

• Use a small cup to rinse instead of cupping water in your hands.
• If your rinse water is clean (just spit, no products), you can use it to water plants.

Small steps can make a big difference over time.

Skip the Natural Tooth Care Fads and Protect Your Teeth

Not everything that’s labeled “natural” is safe for your smile. Some trendy ideas like oil pulling, brushing with charcoal, or using homemade powders aren’t backed by science. These products can sometimes do more harm than good, especially if they’re too abrasive or don’t contain needed minerals to keep your enamel solid.

If you’re building a natural dental care routine, it’s best to stick with methods that are proven to work. Talk to our team about any new products you’re thinking about trying. We can help you choose natural tooth options that are safe, effective, and good for your long-term health.

Let Our Team Help You Enjoy an Earth-Friendly Smile!

You don’t have to give up your dental health to go green. With a few simple changes, like using an electric toothbrush with recyclable heads, choosing PFAS-free floss, and turning off the water, you can care for your smile and the planet at the same time. Schedule your next dental visit so we can help you build a more sustainable oral care routine that works. A cleaner mouth and a cleaner planet? That’s something to smile about, Orlando!