Lots of us have been stocking up on products lately. And while it’s a good idea to grab an extra item or two, it’s also important to make sure that the products you’re saving won’t expire. Expired products aren’t just wasteful- some of them can even be dangerous to use! In this article, we’ll go over the lifespan of your oral hygiene products. This will help you be prepared as you collect items for future use.
How Long Does Toothpaste Last?
When you think of oral health products, toothpaste is probably the first thing to come to mind. So naturally, you will want to have enough toothpaste lying around! But how long does toothpaste last? It varies, but generally speaking, toothpaste will last for about a year or two after purchase. Each tube will have an expiration date printed, making it easy to know when the product is expired.
What About Other Products?
Mouthwash, denture cleaners, and other products will eventually expire. Like toothpaste, these products will have expiration dates printed on their containers. Store them properly and be mindful of these dates to get the most out of the product. Unused toothbrushes and dental floss do not expire, but may not work as well after a number of years. (For instance, bristles may be stiff and floss might lose its flavor). That being said, they can still be used in a pinch.
Is Expired Toothpaste Safe to Use?
If you’re wondering “how long does toothpaste last?”, then you’re probably wondering how long a toothpaste is safe to actually use. Can it be used after the expiration date? While expired toothpaste probably won’t hurt you, it also will not clean as effectively. This is because the expired fluoride (and other active ingredients) will not be as potent. When stocking up on dental products, make sure that you will be able to use all cleaning agents within their expiration dates. This way, you will know that the product is actually working!
Don’t Forget Your Dental Exams
While your oral hygiene routine at home is important, it’s also important to see your dentist regularly. Only your dentist can spot bacteria, remove plaque buildups, and treat oral health problems.