While you’re keeping your mouth healthy, why not take some steps to help keep the Earth healthy too?
Conserving water
Seventy percent of Earth is covered in water, but only a surprising 1 percent is suitable for human consumption. Make the most of our limited water supply by turning off the water while you brush. You can apply the same idea to other parts of your daily routine! Try shutting off the tap while scrubbing your hands, taking showers instead of baths and only running the dishwasher when it’s full.
Discarding toothbrushes
Toothbrush disposal is another opportunity for sustainable oral health practices. Traditional toothbrushes are typically made with hard-plastic handles and soft nylon bristles that can take hundreds of years to decompose. Dentists recommend switching to a new toothbrush every three or four months, but that doesn’t mean you have to throw yours away. There are many ways to reuse old toothbrushes! The bristles are perfect for cleaning hard-to-reach places and for polishing jewelry. They can also make great paintbrushes for craft projects.
Choosing eco-friendly toothbrushes
With a little bit of searching, you can find eco-friendly replacements for your current toothbrush. Try opting for toothbrushes made of recycled plastic. Some companies make traditional toothbrushes with replaceable heads to decrease plastic waste. If you use an electric toothbrush, replacement heads come standard, so you only have to throw away part of your toothbrush when you need a new one.
