Accidentally Applying Vaseline to Your Toothbrush: What to Do Now

In a moment of carelessness, you might have accidentally squirted Vaseline onto your toothbrush and started brushing your teeth. This can lead to an annoying and potentially problematic situation on the roof of your mouth. Here’s what you need to know and what steps to take to resolve the issue.

Risk and Symptoms

Applying Vaseline directly to your teeth or the roof of your mouth can be quite uncomfortable. The non-food-grade nature of Vaseline means it won’t bind to your teeth, and the presence of petroleum jelly can affect the swallowing process. Swallowing a small amount might result in:

Difficulty in swallowing: You might experience a sensation of having food stuck in your throat. Lipstick-like sensations: The feeling might be similar to having lipstick on the roof of your mouth, which can be quite aggravating. Delays in digestion: If swallowed, it could cause a delayed response in your stomach, leading to a sensation of a full or bloated feeling.

Due to its slippery nature, Vaseline on your teeth might also cause the impression that Captain Crunch is stuck on the roof of your mouth, creating an unpleasurable sensation.

Immediate Steps to Take

The first step is to rinse your mouth and remove as much Vaseline as possible. Here are the steps:

Rinse with hot tap water: Start by washing your toothbrush under hot water to remove any excess Vaseline. Use vinegar or lemon juice: Add a few drops of vinegar or lemon juice to the water. These acidic substances can help break down the Vaseline and make it easier to remove. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse your mouth and roof of your mouth with hot water, making sure to swallow the solution as little as possible. Apply toothpaste: After rinsing, apply toothpaste to your toothbrush and brush your teeth, tongue, and roof of your mouth thoroughly.

Emergency Measures

If you feel the Vaseline is causing significant discomfort, you might need to take additional steps:

Use a spoon to remove Vaseline: Spoon some loose cotton on a toothbrush and use it to carefully remove as much Vaseline as possible from the roof of your mouth. Chew on an apple: Eating an apple or similar firm food can help dislodge the Vaseline over time. Brush your mouth gently: Continue brushing your tongue and the roof of your mouth gently to try and remove any remaining residue.

Context and Precautions

It’s important to note that this situation is not a rare occurrence. Sometimes, even artists use Vaseline on their teeth to prevent their lips from sticking together during a photo shoot. However, it’s crucial not to repeat this mistake. Vaseline is not intended for oral use and should not be consumed in any form.

If you swallow a small amount, it is not dangerous, as Vaseline can act as a mild laxative. However, if you swallow large quantities, there is a risk of choking. Removal is generally simple, but if significant discomfort persists, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional.

To avoid such situations in the future, always ensure toothpaste, not Vaseline, is applied to your toothbrush. If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, the steps mentioned above should help.