Hopefully, this doesn’t happen often, but as long as you have access to a few oral care items you should still be able to “brush your teeth” without a toothbrush.

Put toothpaste on a clean damp washcloth or paper towel and wrap it around your finger. Beginning at the gums and working your way toward the biting surface, polish each tooth in a circular motion.

You can also put toothpaste on your finger and go through this process if you don’t have a paper towel or washcloth on hand - perhaps if you are on a camping trip, for example. Just be sure your hands are clean first.

Rinse your mouth thoroughly when you are finished. If you have it, use mouthwash and floss, especially since you can’t get between teeth the same way without a toothbrush.

Typically, we recommend brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day as part of your dentist-recommended oral care routine. Most will agree — your teeth feel best right after a cleaning and polishing at the dentist.

If your teeth are feeling like they are wearing fuzzy slippers, your best bet is to schedule an appointment at our Garden City or St. Vital dental clinics in Winnipeg.