Toothpaste is one of the most essential parts of an oral hygiene routine. Without it, it would be nearly impossible to keep the bacteria in our mouths balanced and keep gum disease and decay away. Most toothpastes contain fluoride which strengthens dental enamel and re-mineralizes teeth. Toothpaste also polishes teeth and freshens breath. Although there are alternatives to toothpaste, none offer the same benefits as modern toothpaste and none are approved by the American Dental Association.

When searching for an effective and safe toothpaste, look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance and talk to your dentist about the best option for your teeth.

Continue reading to learn about other ways you can use toothpaste in your home from our Grant Park dentist.

Other Uses for Toothpaste

We’re betting that defogging headlights isn’t what comes to mind when you think of toothpaste. Why would it? Well, did you know that can do more than just clean our teeth? Of course, this is the main and most important use, but it isn’t the only one!

You can also use toothpaste to do the following:

1.    Remove carpet stains

Have a pesky that you can’t remove? Or have you run out of carpet cleaner? Try toothpaste! Squirt a bit of toothpaste onto a toothbrush, sponge, or towel, then rub it into the stain. Blot the area with a damp cloth, repeat until the stain is gone.

2.    Stop itchy bug bites

The menthol flavor in toothpaste creates a cooling sensation that distracts from an itch. Toothpaste can even reduce swelling! Simply apply a small amount of toothpaste to the bite, rub it in, and let it do its thing.

3.    Get rid of lingering odors

Smelly bathroom sinks, hands, and baby bottles can all be cured with a little toothpaste. Use a squirt of toothpaste on the stinking surface, scrub with a sponge, and rinse.

4.    Fix water rings on furniture

Few people have gone through life without having a water ring or two on their side tables or coffee table. A non-gel toothpaste can help! Using a soft cloth, rub toothpaste directly onto the ring, then wipe it off with a damp cloth. Apply a furniture polish once the area has dried.

5.    Heal bruises

Although there is little evidence for this, you’ll find that healing bruises is on most lists of random uses for toothpaste. It is believed that toothpaste helps break up the clot and increase blood flow. People report noticing a difference after just one night, but it may take several applications to make the bruise completely disappear.

6.    Clear pimples

Ever had a pimple pop up the night before an important event? It happens to all of us. Toothpaste sure does come in handy in those circumstances! Be sure to use a non-gel and non-whitening toothpaste. This will absorb the oil and dehydrate the blemish. Rub some toothpaste on the pimple, then leave it on overnight. It should be significantly smaller by the morning!

7.    Clean irons and straighteners

It’s not uncommon for irons and straighteners to have burn marks that smell and ruin clothing and hair. Simply squirt a small amount of toothpaste on the burnt area of a cooled-down iron, let it sit for a minute, then wipe it away with a clean cloth. Violá! The surface should look brand new.

What Toothpaste Can’t Do

Brushing with toothpaste at home can’t provide the same high-quality, satisfying clean as a professional dental cleaning. For that experience, you’ll need to schedule an appointment with your local dentist! During these appointments, the hygienist will use professional-grade toothpaste, tools, and professional techniques to give you a dazzling, healthy smile.

To schedule an appointment with our Grant Park dentist, Dr. Abbey J. Lee, call (404) 328-7177.