These items don’t have flashy branding or elaborate ad campaigns, but they’re the staples I reach for every time I visit the drugstore.
1) Distilled white vinegar (and/or baking soda)
If your retainer starts to develop an odor, skip the Efferdent tablets. Many cleaning tablets contain persulfate, an ingredient the FDA has flagged for allergic reactions; some product labels even warn “do not put directly in your mouth.” Since your retainer rests against your gums for hours, there’s little sense in soaking it in a solution with that caution. Simple options like a mild vinegar rinse or a baking soda soak clean effectively without harsh chemicals. For safe cleaning techniques, consult reliable dental-care guidance.
2) Sea salt
For a canker sore, dissolve sea salt in warm water until no more will dissolve, then swish for 30–60 seconds four or five times a day. If you buy a premade rinse at the pharmacy, check the label — the only ingredients should be salt and water.
3) A floss stick
People often stop flossing not because they don’t care, but because wrapping string around their fingers is awkward and reaching back teeth can be difficult. A floss stick simplifies the process by turning flossing into a one-handed operation, making it easier to keep up the habit — and yes, you can even multitask with your phone while you floss.
4) Medical tape for mouth taping
Mouth breathing is a major contributor to cavities — often more so than diet or inconsistent hygiene. Taping the mouth at night can encourage nasal breathing, improving sleep quality and preventing dry mouth, which promotes cavities. I use a simple, gentle medical tape like 3M Nexcare Sensitive Skin 1″ Tape; you don’t need anything fancy.
5) Generic 200 mg ibuprofen
If you’re waiting to see a dentist for a toothache, a steady dosing approach helps control inflammation pain: 200 mg, three times a day, for up to three days — the “3-3-3.” Consistent dosing keeps inflammation down more effectively than waiting until the pain peaks. Check with your pharmacist or physician first, especially if you’re on other medications, and don’t use this as a substitute for contacting your dentist. Tooth pain generally won’t resolve on its own; this protocol is only to manage discomfort while you wait for care.
6) Saline nasal spray
A clear nose encourages nasal breathing, and nasal breathing helps maintain saliva production during sleep instead of allowing the mouth to dry out. If available, look for saline sprays that include xylitol; xylitol can reduce the ability of Streptococcus mutans to adhere to surfaces, which supports oral health.
7) San Pellegrino
Not all sparkling waters are equal. San Pellegrino is naturally sourced and contains minerals like calcium and magnesium. Because saliva is derived from blood plasma, minerals circulating in your body influence saliva composition. Mineral-rich saliva can help remineralize enamel after acid exposure; plain carbonated water or many store-brand seltzers won’t provide this benefit.
-Dr. B
P.S. A few items I use daily to support enamel strength and a balanced oral microbiome that you may not find at your local drugstore: a hydroxyapatite toothpaste, a gentle mouthwash alternative, a tongue scraper, an electric flosser, high-quality green tea, a propolis throat spray, digestive enzymes with meals, Vitamin D3/K2, bioavailable CoQ10, magnesium each night, and electrolyte supplements. These products are part of my routine to maintain oral and overall health.