A peculiar tooth-brushing habit revealed by Major League Baseball slugger Bryce Harper of the Philadelphia Phillies has gone viral. Watching him squeeze toothpaste directly from the tube into his mouth, dental experts said there are "no particular benefits" while warning that "bacteria from the mouth can be transferred."
According to the AP and other foreign media outlets on December 31 local time, a tooth-brushing video Harper posted on his social media has drawn significant attention from baseball fans and dentists alike.
The incident began with a short video filmed in a hotel bathroom in San Diego. After greeting viewers with "Good morning, everyone," Harper bypassed the usual step of applying toothpaste to a brush and instead brought the tube directly to his mouth, squeezing the paste in. He then began brushing.
Fans who saw the video flooded the comments with reactions of disbelief. Online comments included remarks such as "the brushing method dentists would hate the most" and "a truly diabolical way to use toothpaste." The video spread rapidly across social media, racking up millions of views.
◇ Harper Says He's "Done It His Whole Life" — Even Appears on Opponent's Scoreboard
The viral video has even been used as fodder for opposing teams. The San Diego Padres recently introduced Harper on their stadium scoreboard with the line: "When he brushes his teeth, he squeezes toothpaste directly into his mouth instead of onto a toothbrush."
But Harper, a two-time National League Most Valuable Player (MVP), appeared unfazed.
In an interview with local media, he said, "I've brushed my teeth that way my whole life," adding, "I'm actually glad the video became a hit. If it can boost views, I'm happy to take it."
◇ Dentists Say "No Reason to Copy It"
The assessment from dental experts was blunt. Dr. Andrew Zucker, a dentist and consumer advisor for the American Dental Association (ADA), pointed out that "there's nothing to gain from it, and it just wastes a tremendous amount of toothpaste."
He said, "In my 45 years, the only person I've ever seen squeeze toothpaste directly into his mouth was my three-year-old son, who was trying to eat it."
The biggest concern among experts is hygiene. Dr. Maria Ryan, chief clinical officer at the well-known toothpaste brand Colgate, explained, "It's worrying because putting your mouth on the tube can transfer bacteria from your mouth."
The risk grows when the toothpaste is shared among family members, as bacteria could be passed around. From a hygiene standpoint, the conventional method of squeezing an appropriate amount onto a toothbrush is more strongly recommended.
Still, experts gave a positive nod to the brushing habit itself. Dr. Ryan said, "At any rate, it's a relief that Harper brushes his teeth at all," adding, "Young fans who dislike brushing might just take an interest in it because their idol Harper does."
