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Tip Store: Health: Dental
Microfibre Mouth Care
I discovered this use for microfibre cloths whilst having chemotherapy and still use it daily for my oral health. It's a wonderfully gentle way to clean your teeth and gums if you have ulcers or similar oral conditions.
Whilst having chemo my mouth was too sore to use a toothbrush or toothpaste. Microfibre does a great job of cleansing my teeth, gums and other nook and crannies in my where it can hurt to brush.
These days, I brush my teeth during the day and use the microfibre at night before bed. Just dampen the cloth with water before use then rinse your mouth with water or mild saline solution after cleaning. I keep a bundle of pieces, cut just for this job, in a container in the bathroom cupboard. They wash and dry easily ready for reuse.
Contributed by Delaney Avenel
Whilst having chemo my mouth was too sore to use a toothbrush or toothpaste. Microfibre does a great job of cleansing my teeth, gums and other nook and crannies in my where it can hurt to brush.
These days, I brush my teeth during the day and use the microfibre at night before bed. Just dampen the cloth with water before use then rinse your mouth with water or mild saline solution after cleaning. I keep a bundle of pieces, cut just for this job, in a container in the bathroom cupboard. They wash and dry easily ready for reuse.
Contributed by Delaney Avenel
Super Clean False Teeth
I always used tablets to clean false teeth. I now use half vinegar and half warm water to steep my teeth. It gets them much cleaner than the tablets. I save a fortune over a year. I only steep them for half an hour.
Contributed by Val Scrimshaw
Contributed by Val Scrimshaw
A Few Weeks Wait can Save Almost $1k
Everyone already knows to shop around when it comes to major dental work. I needed a crown done and I thought I would save the most money by going to a 'member first provider' for my health fund. I was wrong! The gap was still well over $1k. A bit of shopping around narrowed the gap to around $700. But then I saw an advert at my sons paediatric specialist dentist (A super clinic which also does adults) advertising crowns for $749. I enquired and was able to get a free consult. The 'catch' was that the lab work was sent away. It was exactly the same material, quality etc. But instead of being done in-house in a week, it could take up to 6 weeks. You received a temporary crown in the meantime. I took their quote to my health fund and found out there was zero gap!! No out of pocket expense at all. I happily waited the 6 weeks with my temporary crown and saved at least $700. My new crown is perfect and I have not experienced any problems at all.
Contributed by Tara Counsel
Contributed by Tara Counsel
Cleaning False Teeth
Use a strong household bleach. Put teeth in a glass, pour in 1 dessertspoon full of strong bleach, top up to half full with hot water from the tap. Leave to soak overnight. Thoroughly wash teeth clean before fitting.
Contributed by Robert Snell, 22nd June 2013
Contributed by Robert Snell, 22nd June 2013
Cleaning Stains from False Teeth
Clean your false teeth with dishwashing detergent nothing else. Cheap ones work just as well, don't use toothpaste just detergent, keeps them shinning and clean. Toothpaste scratches them over time. Well worth trying.
Contributed by Shirley Horton, 21st June 2013
Contributed by Shirley Horton, 21st June 2013
Removing Stains from False Teeth
I was advised many years ago by a dentist to soak them overnight in water with a dash of either vinegar or lemon juice, then give them a good scrub with a dental brush. If they are badly stained you may have to do them every night till stains are gone.
Contributed by Mi Field, 20th June 2013
Contributed by Mi Field, 20th June 2013
Scrub, Baking Soda & Milton
I work in a dental surgery and think I have a few solutions to your problem. Firstly, you need to brush your false teeth every night, just like real ones (but use soap, as toothpaste is too abrasive). This will remove plaque and pathogens, while preventing further staining. To remove the existing stains, first try scrubbing with a paste of bicarbonate soda and water and soaking in bicarbonate soda solution overnight. If there are still stubborn stains, soak overnight in a Milton sterilization solution (available from the Baby section of your location supermarket, only a few dollars for a large packet). Just make sure you rinse all of the Milton off the false teeth before wearing them. Good luck!
Contributed by Katrina Small, 20th June 2013
Contributed by Katrina Small, 20th June 2013
Removing Stains from Dentures
After being off work sick for a while, I could not justify the cost of denture tablets or solution, after some searching found that you mix 1 part bleach to 10 parts water and soak. Dentures come up perfectly:) Make sure you rinse well before wearing.
Contributed by Brenda Cameron, 20th June 2013
Contributed by Brenda Cameron, 20th June 2013
Taking Care of False Teeth
I work in aged care and for really stubborn stains on false teeth the easiest solution is to soak them overnight in white vinegar and clean with a paste of bicarbonate soda in the morning. It may take a few soaks depending on how bad the stain is but you will see great results.
Contributed by Leanne Coward, 20th June 2013
Contributed by Leanne Coward, 20th June 2013
False Teeth Cleaning
My husband was advised by his dentist to soak teeth in white vinegar once a week, he swears by it, keeps his teeth very clean.
Contributed by Margaret Trounce, 20th June 2013
Contributed by Margaret Trounce, 20th June 2013
How to Make Your Dentures Sparkle Like Brand New
Put one or two teaspoons of citric acid in a glass of water and leave for a few hours or overnight until they are sparkling like brand new. This is a really cheap, healthy option as you can buy a container of citric acid from your baking aisle at your local supermarket for about $2 and it will last ages. It's also edible so really safe for you too.
Contributed by Sherrie Christon, 20th June 2013
Contributed by Sherrie Christon, 20th June 2013
A Bright Smile After Years of Being Ashamed
Approximate $$ Saved: $35,500+
This could be a controversial post about savings but the amount of savings that resulted is astronomical. DH has been ashamed of is teeth from an early age. His teeth were crooked with large gaps and discoloured. He grew up without fluoride in the water supply and many of his friends has false teeth before their 20's. He was so embarrassed that he would rarely smile showing his teeth. With a career in teaching, many children would often comment on how bad his teeth were. Quotes over the years way beyond what we could afford to have them fixed. DH had resolved to live with them. On retirement we considered using some of our funds to have some work done on DH teeth but the last quote was $48,000 a $50,000. Why not have them out and get false teeth a few would say? But the dentist said although crooked etc. they were good strong teeth so recommended not to take them out. Recently a friend mentioned to us that he had just returned from Bali have some Dental work done because it was so much cheaper. After much discussion and contemplating we decided to fly to Bali for at least an appraisal. DH also wanted old metal fillings replaced with porcelain ones. The recommendation was a full set, top and bottom, with porcelain crowns and bridges. The quote $9800. His teeth were strong enough for this treatment. He now supports a beautiful set of teeth that he can be proud of. Our kids, partners, friends cannot believe the transformation and how natural they look. Estimation of costs with Dental work, travel, accommodation, living expenses for 10 days, $12,500. Contributed by Glenda Oliver, 28th May 2013
This could be a controversial post about savings but the amount of savings that resulted is astronomical. DH has been ashamed of is teeth from an early age. His teeth were crooked with large gaps and discoloured. He grew up without fluoride in the water supply and many of his friends has false teeth before their 20's. He was so embarrassed that he would rarely smile showing his teeth. With a career in teaching, many children would often comment on how bad his teeth were. Quotes over the years way beyond what we could afford to have them fixed. DH had resolved to live with them. On retirement we considered using some of our funds to have some work done on DH teeth but the last quote was $48,000 a $50,000. Why not have them out and get false teeth a few would say? But the dentist said although crooked etc. they were good strong teeth so recommended not to take them out. Recently a friend mentioned to us that he had just returned from Bali have some Dental work done because it was so much cheaper. After much discussion and contemplating we decided to fly to Bali for at least an appraisal. DH also wanted old metal fillings replaced with porcelain ones. The recommendation was a full set, top and bottom, with porcelain crowns and bridges. The quote $9800. His teeth were strong enough for this treatment. He now supports a beautiful set of teeth that he can be proud of. Our kids, partners, friends cannot believe the transformation and how natural they look. Estimation of costs with Dental work, travel, accommodation, living expenses for 10 days, $12,500. Contributed by Glenda Oliver, 28th May 2013
Get It All
With the cost of toothpaste, cosmetics and the like it is crafty when you believe you have emptied the tube to "get it all" Simply cut the bottom edge off and split the tube back up ...........Viola......a further few days of toothpaste, hand cream etc. You will be surprised how much remains in an empty tube! - Contributed by Helen Jenkins, 6th July 2012
Natural Mouthwash and Gargle
Approximate $ Savings: Approximately $100 per year
Look in your pantry for a natural mouthwash. Squeeze the juice of 1 lime or lemon in a tall glass, add one teaspoon of bicarb soda and top up with tap water. You can use this like a mouthwash. It works very well to prevent bad breath. Many mouthwashes sold contain alcohol which is bad for you. You can save up to a $100 per year, depending on the brand bought. Chewing on a few sprigs of parsley kills bad breath and aids digestion as well.
Contributed by Lynette Greig, 26th July 2010
Look in your pantry for a natural mouthwash. Squeeze the juice of 1 lime or lemon in a tall glass, add one teaspoon of bicarb soda and top up with tap water. You can use this like a mouthwash. It works very well to prevent bad breath. Many mouthwashes sold contain alcohol which is bad for you. You can save up to a $100 per year, depending on the brand bought. Chewing on a few sprigs of parsley kills bad breath and aids digestion as well.
Contributed by Lynette Greig, 26th July 2010
Denture Cleaner
For a cheap way to clean dentures just put them in vinegar and water. This can also be reused again and again if you clean the dentures first. You can also use straight vinegar the dentist told me but I find it works just as well in 2/3 water and 1/3 vinegar.
Contributed by Wendy Moller, 17th May 2009
Contributed by Wendy Moller, 17th May 2009
Sparkling Pearly Whites With This Mouthwash
Here`s my recipe for a teeth whitening mouthwash that removes coffee, tea and tobacco stains and brightens teeth. Mix together in a glass bottle with a lid: 1/2 cup vodka or gin (cheap is good), 2 teaspoons glycerine, 4 cups water, 2 teaspoons flavouring (mint is good), a few drops of food colouring (green is good) and 3 packets artificial sweetener (optional, but it tastes much better with it). Label the bottle. Swish 1 tablespoonful through teeth for one minute prior to brushing. Spit out. Brush as usual for two minutes. Used regularly you will see a difference in about a week. As with all medicinal products, keep out of reach of children. Not particularly toxic, but not good to drink either. Contributed by Toni, Elizabeth Park, 28th October 2009
Monash University Dental Checkups
If you are a permanent resident of Australia and own a Medicare card you are eligible to go the Monash University for dental work at the final year students. Professors will supervise and you will get your teeth done at a very good price.
Contributed by Neola, Wheelers Hills, 3rd September 2009
Contributed by Neola, Wheelers Hills, 3rd September 2009
Brush Without Toothpaste
Here is a site to visit that says you can use baking soda www.wikihow.com/Brush-Teeth-Without-Toothpaste
Contributed by Marlene, Picton, 25th September 2008
Contributed by Marlene, Picton, 25th September 2008
Rinse and Brush to Keep Plate Clean
I wear a dental plate at night and have always just cleaned it after use by first thoroughly rinsing in warm water, then cleaning (like brushing your teeth) with my usual toothpaste on a toothbrush. This has always cleaned my plate extremely well and is much, much cheaper than using denture cleaner. Contributed by Peta, Baulkham Hills, 30th September 2008
Clean as You Brush Your Teeth
I have a mouth guard to wear at night. In the morning as I brush my teeth, I spit the froth into my mouth guard and then brush it, same as my teeth, which of course costs me nothing :) If you'd like a liquid to keep it in during the day try a mix of 1/4 cheap vodka, 3/4 water and a splash of peppermint essence. This mix also works great as a mouthwash, so I generally make it up in a big bottles (cost approximately $20 for 4 litres).
Contributed by Kate, Wendouree,30th September 2008
Contributed by Kate, Wendouree,30th September 2008
Liquid Soap and a Toothbrush for a Clean Mouth Guard
I wear a mouth guard because I grind my teeth (so badly, I have had to have four crowns on my lower teeth - expensive). Denture cleaner is not good for my mouth guard, so in the morning I apply a small amount of liquid hand soap and brush with a toothbrush and let the mouth guard dry during the day. Occasionally, to freshen it up completely, I soak it in warm water that contains 2 teaspoons of bicarb soda for 20 minutes and then brush it and rinse thoroughly. You will find this is a low cost, efficient cleaning method, approved by my dental specialist.
Contributed by Wendy, Leopold, 30th September 2008
Contributed by Wendy, Leopold, 30th September 2008
Minty Fresh All the Time
Having a son who plays football I wanted to find a cheap easy way to keep his mouth guard clean and fresh at all times so we use a generic brand mint toothpaste, applying it with a toothbrush to wash. We then keep it in its original plastic case to keep the germs away until its next use. It has a lasting fresh taste, I've had no complaints. \
Contributed by Francesca, Rockdale,1st October 2008
Contributed by Francesca, Rockdale,1st October 2008
Brush it Clean
Try using toothpaste and a toothbrush to clean mouth guards. I clean my mouth guard this way each morning. After cleaning, dry it well and put it in it's case.
Contributed by Anita, 1st October 2008
Contributed by Anita, 1st October 2008
Soaking in Bi-Carb Solution Cleans Plate
Having worn the same mouth plate for four years (to stop grinding my teeth) I found soaking in bi-carb solution has worked best (and is much cheaper than the denture cleaning tablets) to clean it. Just rinse well in clean water before you put it in your mouth.
Contributed by Alice, Mount Isa, 30th September 2008
Contributed by Alice, Mount Isa, 30th September 2008
Overnight Soak in Soda Water
Try some soda water to clean mouth guards and splints. Having spent years in hospitality, we often soak things overnight in soda water and give them a good rinse in the morning. Or you could try a sprinkle of bi-carb - even cheaper!
Contributed by Rae, Cannonvale, 30th September 2008
Contributed by Rae, Cannonvale, 30th September 2008
Soap and Water Cleans Night Splint
I also wear a night splint you can just use sunlight soap and a toothbrush or toothpaste. You do not need to soak it just rinse after cleaning and store in mouthguard container. If becomes a little smelly just soak in Milton solution for 30 minutes.
Contributed by Jenny, Wallsend, 30th September 2008
Contributed by Jenny, Wallsend, 30th September 2008
Free Dental Treatment for Children 4 - 16
Approximate $ Savings: $45 This tip is for: Queensland
I had my daughter booked into the local dentist and was quoted $45 just for the check-up, any additional work would cost extra. Luckily, after phoning Queensland Health, I was informed that my daughter could visit any school dental health clinic for free. It does not matter whether they attend the school or not. This is for all QLD children aged between 4 and 16 years old, it does not matter how much income the parents receive but you must show a Medicare card. I'm sure other states would offer something similar. Simply call 1300 300 850 to book an appointment.
Contributed by Angelee, Hope Island, 3rd September2008
I had my daughter booked into the local dentist and was quoted $45 just for the check-up, any additional work would cost extra. Luckily, after phoning Queensland Health, I was informed that my daughter could visit any school dental health clinic for free. It does not matter whether they attend the school or not. This is for all QLD children aged between 4 and 16 years old, it does not matter how much income the parents receive but you must show a Medicare card. I'm sure other states would offer something similar. Simply call 1300 300 850 to book an appointment.
Contributed by Angelee, Hope Island, 3rd September2008
Turn The Tube On It's End
When the toothpaste is getting near the end instead of a lot of squeezing etc. just turn the tube upside down, making sure the lid is on tightly, and the toothpaste will come down to the right place, easy to access.
Contributed by Gayle, Kangaroo Flat, 13th August 2008
Contributed by Gayle, Kangaroo Flat, 13th August 2008
Brushing Those Pearly Whites for Less
Approximate $ Savings: $2
Buying toothbrushes each season for the whole family can be pricey! By visiting a store like The Reject Shop you can by a 3packk of name brand toothbrushes for only $2 each, a saving of $2 per toothbrush in your local grocery store!
Contributed by Maryana, Elizabeth North, 19th June 2008
Buying toothbrushes each season for the whole family can be pricey! By visiting a store like The Reject Shop you can by a 3packk of name brand toothbrushes for only $2 each, a saving of $2 per toothbrush in your local grocery store!
Contributed by Maryana, Elizabeth North, 19th June 2008
Get the Last of the Toothpaste
Getting the last of the toothpaste out of the tube was always a bit of a problem for me until I found a "Toothpaste Squeezer" which is available at "Howards Storage World" shops. It costs 95 cents and it is amazing how much more toothpaste can be squeezed out after you think the tube is empty. It is also suitable for any type of tube. I have found it particularly good for prescription ointments as these are usually quite expensive.
Contributed by Kath, Willoughby, 25th April 2008
Contributed by Kath, Willoughby, 25th April 2008
Pearly Whites on the Move
When your children head off for a sleepover or a school camp don't ever send a full tube of toothpaste - it won't return. Instead give them an almost empty toothpaste tube with enough for only a couple of teeth cleaning sessions.
Contributed by Margaret, Adelaide, 24th June 2007
Contributed by Margaret, Adelaide, 24th June 2007
Mouth Ulcer Free for Life
Never use fluoride toothpaste. It causes breakdown of the lining of the mouth. IT REALLY WORKS. Contributed by Liz, Booragoon, 15th April 2007
Measure Toothpaste and Make It Last
Encourage your children to only use a very small amount of toothpaste by telling them it's poisonous if they use too much. When you are nearing the end of the tube lay it down and wipe over the tube from the sealed end towards the nozzle - gives you another week.
Contributed by Jacqueline, October 5th 2006
Contributed by Jacqueline, October 5th 2006
One Step Better than Baking Soda for Clean Teeth
Use liquid peroxide in addition to baking soda. I just have a small, dual bin covered container I use with liquid peroxide in one side and baking soda in the other. I dip my dry toothbrush into the liquid peroxide and dip then into the soda. Peroxide is actually good for the gums, stimulates them and promotes good blood flow, which is essential to healthy teeth and gums. This works extremely well also to brush the tongue, as it also clears out odour causing bacteria. Rinse well with water. All natural, and less than a buck for a years supply - can't beat that!
Contributed by Tyleen, Longview, September 9th 2006
Contributed by Tyleen, Longview, September 9th 2006
Get the Most From Your Toothpaste
To get the most from your toothpaste tube, I use a plastic clip closer ($2 for 12 from Red Dot) clipped across the end of the tube and just move the clip up the tube as the toothpaste is used, it squeezes out every drop. These clips I also use for clipping shut packets of frozen vegies to stop spillage.
Contributed by Vanessa, Halls Head, November 24, 2004
Garlic Breath
If you've had a big night out and next morning your breath is not so nice, parsley will sweeten it. Juice half a bunch of parsley; add a squeeze of lemon juice and drink. It tastes different, but will really sweeten your breath and gets rid of that yucky morning after taste in your mouth. It is especially effective on garlic breath.
Low on Toothpaste?
If you cut off the folded-end of a toothpaste tube to open it out (like a cylinder) just dip your toothbrush in and move it about. You will find enough trapped toothpaste to last a few brushings, or until you next shop. Very handy for those of us in a hurry, when caught-out or unable to get to shops!
- Contributed by Brian, Port Melbourne, September 7th 2006
- Contributed by Brian, Port Melbourne, September 7th 2006