How to Load a Toothpaste Dispenser: TikTok Hack & Alternatives

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Learn whether the viral TikTok toothpaste dispenser really works

Co-authored by Tu Anh Vu, DMD and Hunter Rising

Last Updated: March 15, 2026 Fact Checked

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TikTok Toothpaste Dispenser

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Drawbacks

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Using Other Toothpaste Dispensers

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Proper Dental Routine

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Video

Toothpaste dispensers are the perfect tool for putting the right amount onto your toothbrush. While there is a viral TikTok trend to make your own dispenser, it might not be as effective and it also has some drawbacks. Keep reading, and we’ll walk you through the trend, plus how to load other dispensers that keep your toothpaste fresh and safe to use.

How do you load and use a toothpaste dispenser?

To load a toothpaste dispenser, push or screw the toothpaste tube following the model's instructions. Some dispensers use automatic sensors, while others have a lever you push with the brush. While TikTok trends show mixing toothpaste and mouthwash in a soap dispenser, this can make your toothpaste less effective.

Section 1 of 4:

How to Make the Viral TikTok Toothpaste Dispenser

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Combine toothpaste and mouthwash in a clean soap dispenser. A TikTok by @kirs10mccready explains that all you have to do is empty 1-2 tubes of toothpaste into a pump soap dispenser. Then, add a capful of your favorite mouthwash before screwing on the top. Shake or stir the mixture so the toothpaste and mouthwash combine.
- When you’re finished, all you have to do is press down on the pump to dispense the perfect amount of toothpaste onto your toothbrush.

Section 2 of 4:

Is it a good idea to do the TikTok toothpaste dispenser hack?

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No, using the homemade dispenser may make toothpaste less effective. Even though a dispenser can help you use the right amount of toothpaste, the viral trend has a few downsides. Toothpaste is UV-sensitive, so when it’s exposed to light in a clear dispenser, it starts to break down and won’t work as effectively.^{[1]
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- Putting your toothpaste in a different container also has the chance to introduce outside bacteria or contaminants.
- A TikTok by @themamadentist also explains that combining toothpaste and mouthwash can dilute the ingredients in both, and make them less effective.

Section 3 of 4:

How to Put Toothpaste in Other Toothpaste Dispensers

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Screw or push the toothpaste tube into an electric or manual dispenser. While the instructions will vary on the specific toothpaste dispenser you have, most of them work the same way. Dispensers usually have a hole where you can screw or push the toothpaste tube into place securely. These dispensers are great because the toothpaste stays in its original tube so it lasts the longest.
- You may need to remove a cover on the dispenser to put in the toothpaste, so be sure to check the directions that come with your model.
- Automatic dispensers sense when you insert your toothbrush and squeeze out the perfect amount of toothpaste.
- Manual dispensers have a lever inside that you push with the toothbrush head to dispense the toothpaste.
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Slide a manual toothpaste squeezer onto the end of the toothpaste tube. Toothpaste squeezers have a small slot that fits onto the end of standard toothpaste tubes. Push the squeezer up the tube to push the toothpaste inside toward the tip.^{[2]
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- Some squeezers have a small crank on the side that you turn to push the toothpaste toward the tip.
EXPERT TIP

Shayne Guffey, DMD
Dentist
Dr. Shayne Guffey, DMD is a Dentist and the owner of Mountain View Family Dental in Mesa, Arizona. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Guffey specializes in family dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM) from Oregon Health & Science University. Additionally, he’s a professional member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation.

Shayne Guffey, DMD
Dentist

Squeeze out toothpaste with a pencil if you don’t have a dispenser. When you want to get the most out of your toothpaste tube, flatten out the end with a pencil and push the remaining paste up toward the tip.

Section 4 of 4:

Proper Brushing and Dental Routine

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Brush your teeth twice a day. Board-certified dentist Tu Anh Vu, DMD, recommends brushing your teeth for at least 2 minutes using gentle pressure and small circular motions. She gives the reminder: “Make sure that you get all the molars and back teeth because they’re easily forgotten. Brush all the surfaces on the front, in the back, and on the sides.”^{[3]
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- Dr. Vu advises against pressing your toothbrush too hard on your teeth because it could actually scrub off enamel or damage your gums.^{[4]
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- When you’re brushing your teeth, board-certified dentist Alina Lane, DDS, mentions to also brush your tongue. She says, “Brushing your tongue helps remove a layer of bacteria which can contribute to tooth decay or gum disease.”^{[5]
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Floss your teeth once a day. When you’re flossing, Dr. Vu says to push the floss “down into the gums and then massaging the gums on the left and then on the right.” She also notes that you should take the time to floss between every tooth so you get the full effect and don’t miss any spots.^{[6]
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- Experts at the American Dental Association (ADA) say it doesn’t matter whether you floss before or after you brush your teeth as long as you make it part of your regular routine.^{[7]
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Use mouthwash during the day between brushings. According to the experts at the National Health Service (NHS), using mouthwash after you brush your teeth could rinse away the leftover fluoride from your toothpaste and make it less effective. If you want to use mouthwash, use it during the middle of the day, such as right after a meal or whenever you want to freshen your breath.^{[8]
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- The ADA notes that using mouthwash can help keep your mouth and teeth healthy, but you should continue brushing and flossing.
Dr. Vu recommends making a dental appointment every 6 months for a cleaning and examination. She says, “Prevention in dentistry is the most important thing,” so catching any dental issues early can help save you from costly procedures in the future.^{[9]
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