Teeth Wipes: Alternatives to Oral-B Brush Ups

Many people were sad when Oral-B Brush-Ups were discontinued in 2007. These textured teeth wipes were individually wrapped, sugar-free, and very convenient for cleaning your teeth while traveling or away from home during the day.

Unfortunately, Oral-B doesn't make a similar product, but there are a few comparable alternatives. These include Azdent Deep Cleaning Teeth Wipes and My Dentist's Choice Tooth Tissues.

This article explains the benefits of teeth wipes and why they aren't a replacement for a toothbrush.

Benefits of Teeth Wipes

Teeth wipes are convenient and easy to use. Just wipe them over your teeth, tongue, and gums to help keep your teeth and mouth clean and your breath fresh throughout the day.

They don't require wetting or for you to rinse after using them, so you don't need to be near a sink. They are also individually wrapped. Just throw them in your purse, backpack, desk, or car so you have them handy whenever you need them.

Most teeth wipes are sugar-free to prevent cavities and come in a refreshing mint flavor. They typically fit over your finger like a little sock and have a special moisture shield that keeps your finger dry.

While useful in many regards, teeth wipes are not as effective as brushing for cleaning your teeth, as wiping teeth using a finger may make it difficult to reach hard-to-access areas in the mouth. It's best to think of them as a way to freshen up until your next brush.

Teeth Wipes on the Market

There are a couple of teeth wipe brands that you can find in stores and online:

• Azdent Deep Cleaning Teeth Wipes: These wipes fit snugly on your finger, are textured, sugar-free, and have a mint flavor.
• My Dentist's Choice Tooth Tissues: These are made specifically for preventing tooth decay in babies, but people of all ages can use them. The 99% natural wipes are paraben-free and were created by two dentists for their daughter. They don't contain any flavoring, but users rave about the wipe's ability to give teeth a clean, smooth, fresh feeling.
• Spiffies Baby Tooth Wipes: They are paraben- and fluoride-free, making them great for little kids.
  

Don't Skip the Real Toothbrush

Teeth wipes are not a replacement for regular brushing and flossing, which are essential for cleaning teeth and gums effectively.

The American Dental Association recommends:

• Brushing for two minutes, twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Using a fluoride toothpaste
• Brushing the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces
• Flossing between teeth once a day
• Limiting sugary drinks and snacks
• Seeing a dentist regularly

Summary

Teeth wipes are a convenient tool for freshening your mouth on the go. You can find several brands of teeth wipes on the market.

Teeth wipes are not intended to replace brushing. Be sure to continue to brush and floss your teeth every day.