Baseball fans were recently treated to more than just home runs when Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper shared a casual “get ready with me” TikTok video from his hotel bathroom. While the clip covered his morning routine — contacts, face wash, and even a tongue scraper — one moment stopped viewers in their tracks: Harper squeezing toothpaste straight from the tube into his mouth before brushing.
The internet quickly dubbed it the “tube-to-tongue” technique. Social media erupted with reactions ranging from amusement to horror, and even opposing teams like the Padres poked fun at it on their scoreboard. Harper later shrugged it off, saying he’s done it “forever” and was glad for the viral attention.
While it’s entertaining to see a superstar’s quirky habit, let’s talk about what this means for your oral health.
Why the “Tube-to-Tongue” Method Isn’t Ideal
Dentists and the American Dental Association advise against putting the toothpaste tube directly in your mouth for a few key reasons:
- Wasted Toothpaste & Over-Application: You only need a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste for adults. Squirting directly into your mouth often leads to using (and potentially swallowing) more than necessary.
- Hygiene Concerns: Placing the tube opening against your tongue or lips can transfer bacteria back to the tube. This is especially relevant if the tube is shared with family members.
- Uneven Distribution: Toothpaste works best when applied evenly across the bristles, allowing the fluoride and cleaning agents to reach all surfaces of your teeth more effectively.
The Dentist-Approved Toothbrushing Routine
At our practice, we recommend this simple, effective method for a healthier smile:
- Use the Right Amount — A pea-sized dab of fluoride toothpaste on your toothbrush.
- Brush Properly — Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and use gentle, short circular or back-and-forth strokes. Brush for a full two minutes, covering all surfaces.
- Don’t Forget the Basics:
- Brush twice daily (morning and night).
- Replace your toothbrush every 3–4 months or sooner if bristles fray.
- Floss daily and consider a tongue scraper (Harper got this part right — it helps remove bacteria!).
- For Kids — Use a rice-grain-sized amount for children under 3 and a pea-sized amount for ages 3–6.
Bonus Tips for a Winning Smile
- Choose a toothpaste with fluoride and consider one with additional benefits like sensitivity relief or whitening, depending on your needs.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings — professional care catches issues early.
- Stay hydrated and limit sugary snacks/drinks, which fuel cavity-causing bacteria.
Harper may be a baseball legend with a powerful swing, but when it comes to oral hygiene, we’ll stick with proven techniques that protect your teeth for the long haul.
Nest Family Dentistry, your dentist in Modesto.