How to Brush Teeth Without Toothpaste

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup of baking soda
• 1/8 cup of water
• flavoring (edible)

Steps

1. Mix the baking soda and water in a container.
2. Add flavoring (this is optional).
3. Shake the container rapidly.
4. Slowly pour a small portion onto your tooth brush and start to brush!

Tips

• You might be surprised to know that this method whitens your teeth just as well as using a brand name toothpaste and it will still prevent cavities.
• One suggested flavoring is lemon or lime juice as these are very refreshing flavors and they also help to brighten teeth. However, be aware that adding anything acidic (such as lemon or lime juice) to the 'toothpaste' because this could cause a weakening of the tooth (acid erosion).
• In some places, for example India, Neem twigs are used for brushing teeth. (Neem is a kind of tree.) Similarly, Miswak sticks are used in the Middle East. These are natural alternatives to toothpaste and there is no need for a toothbrush either; easy and a sustainable solution for our planet.

Warnings

• Do not use too much flavoring - this could cause numbness of the tongue.
• Sugar is not a flavoring!
• If you've swallowed a lot of the "toothpaste" mixture, drink water and seek medical assistance if needed; too much baking soda may make you vomit.
• Be careful if you use this treatment frequently; it might wear the enamel off your teeth.