When most people think of toothpaste, the first thing that comes to mind is brushing their teeth. Our team at Johnson Orthodontics spends a lot of time talking about the importance of brushing and flossing, especially for patients with braces, because keeping teeth clean during orthodontic treatment is important to achieving great results. However, what many don’t realize is that toothpaste has several other surprising uses beyond the bathroom sink.
Dr. Johnson loves sharing helpful tips with patients. Whether you’re visiting our Huntsville office or our Hampton Cove office, we want you to know that toothpaste can be a multi-purpose tool you already have in your home. From soothing everyday irritations to fixing small household annoyances, here are some clever and unexpected uses for toothpaste that can be useful in your daily life.
Relieve Bug Bites and Minor Irritations
Anyone who’s spent time outdoors in Huntsville knows that the mosquitoes can be as determined as the hikers on Monte Sano. A relaxing afternoon at Ditto Landing or a backyard barbecue in Hampton Cove can quickly turn itchy thanks to bug bites or the occasional bee sting.
Here’s where toothpaste comes in: dab a small amount on the irritated spot and let it sit. The cooling effect can calm the itch, while the paste helps dry out the area and reduce swelling. It’s not a substitute for proper medical care if you have an allergy, but for everyday bites, it’s a surprisingly effective trick that can help you get back to enjoying the outdoors without constant scratching.
Remove Scuffs from Shoes
Scuffs have a way of making shoes look tired, even when the rest of the outfit is on point. Downtown events at The Orion Amphitheater or dinner spots in Five Points call for footwear that looks its best, and toothpaste can help restore that shine.
Here’s how to achieve the shine:
- Choose the right toothpaste – Stick with a plain white paste, not gel or whitening varieties, since those can sometimes leave marks.
- Apply a small amount – About a pea-sized dab directly on the scuff works best.
- Scrub gently – Use an old toothbrush or soft cloth to work the paste into the scuffed area.
- Wipe clean – Finish by wiping with a damp cloth and letting the shoe air dry.
For stubborn scuffs, you may need a second round. This works especially well on sneakers and leather shoes, but always test a small area first. It’s a quick, inexpensive way to keep your shoes looking polished without an emergency trip to the store.
Keep Mirrors from Fogging
Hot showers are great, but foggy mirrors …not so much. Instead of wiping the glass over and over, try this trick with toothpaste:
- Spread a thin layer across the mirror.
- Buff it away with a clean, dry cloth.
- Step back and admire a clear surface.
The coating helps repel condensation so the glass stays fog-free. Families in Hampton Cove often rely on this tip to save time during the morning rush.
Clean Wall Marks Without Losing Paint
Crayon “masterpieces” and marker doodles happen in every home. The good news: you don’t have to repaint the whole wall.
- Apply a dab of toothpaste to a damp cloth.
- Rub gently until the mark fades.
- Wipe with a clean section of the cloth to finish.
Parents near Blossomwood Elementary and Goldsmith-Schiffman Elementary say this little trick has saved more than a few walls after art projects.
Bring Back Shine to Jewelry and Fixtures
Toothpaste isn’t just for your teeth. Its mild abrasives also restore sparkle to jewelry and even household hardware. A silver bracelet, an engagement ring, or a dull bathroom faucet can all benefit from:
- A small dab of toothpaste
- A gentle scrub with a soft cloth
- A rinse and quick polish
Patients at our Huntsville orthodontic office often mention using this tip before weddings, graduations, or family photo sessions.
Cut Cooking Odors From Your Hands
Garlic, onions, and spices add flavor to meals but leave stubborn odors on your hands. Soap alone doesn’t always do the job.
Instead, rub a little toothpaste on your hands while washing. The smell fades quickly, leaving hands fresh again. Families who stock up at the Huntsville Farmers Market love this simple kitchen hack.
A Quick Fix for Blemishes
Teenagers sometimes ask Dr. Johnson about toothpaste for pimples. While not a replacement for proper skincare, it can help in a pinch.
Dabbing a little toothpaste on a blemish before bed may dry it out by morning. Students at Huntsville High or Hampton Cove Middle School often try this before a big game, dance, or picture day.
Fill Tiny Wall Holes
Taking down photos or posters leaves small nail holes that make the walls look messy. Toothpaste doubles as a temporary patch.
- Squeeze a little into the hole.
- Smooth it with a putty knife or your finger.
- Let it dry, then touch up with paint if needed.
It’s a quick fix that keeps walls looking neat until a more permanent repair can be done.
When NOT to Use Toothpaste
As handy as toothpaste can be, it’s not the right solution for every problem. A few situations where you should avoid it include:
- Whitening or gel toothpaste on surfaces – these formulas can stain fabrics, scratch delicate items, or leave behind residue.
- Wood furniture or unsealed surfaces – toothpaste is slightly abrasive and may damage the finish.
- Serious skin issues – toothpaste may help with the occasional blemish or bug bite, but it should never replace proper medical care for rashes, burns, or allergic reactions.
- Electronics or screens – the paste can cause scratches and moisture damage.
Used wisely, toothpaste is a great multi-purpose tool. Just remember, its main purpose is caring for your teeth, and always be cautious when applying it outside the bathroom sink.
Keep Your Smile the Priority
Toothpaste may have plenty of unexpected uses, but its most important job is protecting your teeth. Dr. Johnson and the team at Johnson Orthodontics are here to help you get the most out of your brushing routine, especially if you’re in braces or considering orthodontic treatment.
Schedule your visit today at our Huntsville office or come see us at our Hampton Cove office.