Sustainable living starts with small daily habits—including your dental routine. As you embrace the new year, consider eco-friendly oral care choices that benefit both your smile and the planet.
Switch to a Sustainable Toothbrush
Plastic toothbrushes can take over 400 years to decompose. Try bamboo toothbrushes with biodegradable handles or electric toothbrushes with replaceable heads to reduce waste (National Geographic, 2019).
Choose Eco-Conscious Toothpaste
Look for toothpaste with recyclable packaging or opt for tablet forms that reduce plastic waste. Avoid products with microbeads, which harm aquatic life.
Cut Down on Water Waste
Turn off the tap while brushing. The EPA estimates that turning off the water while brushing can save up to 8 gallons per day per person (EPA, n.d.).
Recycle Dental Products
Programs like TerraCycle® allow you to recycle floss containers, toothpaste tubes, and brush heads.
“Green habits can start right at your bathroom sink,” says Dr. Ana Lisa Garza, eco-dentistry advocate.
This year, let your healthy habits help the planet too—one smile at a time!
References
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Environmental Protection Agency. (n.d.). WaterSense: Brushing your teeth. https://www.epa.gov/watersense
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National Geographic. (2019). How to reduce your plastic waste. https://www.nationalgeographic.com