There has been a trend towards being eco-friendly for a while, but this issue is more pressing now than ever before. Fortunately, we still have time to change our habits in order to prevent irreversible climate change.

Choosing the right oral care products and disposing of them properly can help us take care of the environment. You can keep your mouth healthy in a sustainable way by following these tips!

Be aware of how much water you are using.

This may seem obvious or even common knowledge. You can make a significant impact on the environment by reducing the amount of water you use while brushing. If you turn off the water while brushing, you could potentially save 8 gallons of water per day. In your home, that’s more than 200 gallons a month per person. Children who are taught these habits early will be more likely to lead a sustainable lifestyle in the future.

Brush with a bamboo toothbrush.

Many toothbrushes are made from non-degradable and non-recyclable materials, such as plastic handles and nylon bristles. It means that the 50 million pounds of plastic waste generated by toothbrushes every year never really leaves the planet. Unlike plastic toothbrushes, bamboo toothbrushes are compostable and biodegradable, which means they can be easily disposed of in landfills.

Make use of an electric toothbrush.

Certain electric toothbrushes have a reusable bottom or base, and the top is replaced when the bristles become worn. Although waste is still generated, it is significantly less than getting a brand new toothbrush every few months. To further reduce waste, use an electric toothbrush that plugs into the wall instead of batteries.

Recycle

There is probably more to your oral health care routine than just a toothbrush and water. There is a green toothpaste option available at almost every major retailer. If you have bottles of mouthwash, plastic containers to hold floss, or other plastic materials, ensure that you recycle them properly. If you are unsure whether some of your containers are recyclable, you can ask your local recycling center. It can go a long way towards preventing plastic from ending up in unwanted places.

Dentists practice eco-friendly dentistry in greater numbers than ever before. Some may not even be aware that they are doing so. Dentists who are environmentally conscious utilize digital x-rays and patient records. Furthermore, they may be able to use environmentally friendly dental materials without adding hazardous substances to wastewater.

Think green and keep yourself and the planet smiling. Contact our office today to schedule your next appointment.