Which is better: borrowing a toothbrush or finger brushing?

Have you ever been  away from your home on an overnight and left your toothbrush at home?  What would you do without a toothbrush?  Drs. Ogle, Schmitz, Hart, and Fickas would recommend routine hygiene for your teeth which includes brushing your teeth regularly.    If you were in that situation, many would not hesitate to use another person’s toothbrush.   The concern with using another’s toothbrush would be that even running hot water over the brush would not kill the germs.  The bristles on the toothbrush can harbor bacteria and could cause you to get the flu or other illness.  The better choice would be to put toothpaste on your finger and brush your teeth with your finger in a circular motion including the area over your gums as well as teeth.    Unfortunately, you will not be able to get into the crevices but with rinsing with water and brushing with your finger can reduce cavity-causing plaque.   And flossing can help in removing any food particles that may be in between your teeth.   Family Dentistry is available to help with any of your questions regarding your dental health.