Quick answer

Switching to toothpaste bits is a simple three-step habit swap: pick a bit that matches your oral care needs, chew one to break it down, then brush with a wet toothbrush for two minutes. Most people adjust within a week. Start with a single jar of Bite Toothpaste Bits and keep your old tube nearby for the first few days if you want a safety net.

Why make the switch from tube toothpaste?

Tube toothpaste is convenient, but it comes with a plastic tube that is difficult to recycle and often ends up in landfill. Toothpaste bits offer a plastic-free alternative that is compact, travel-friendly, and easy to store. They also let you control exactly how much product you use each time, so there is less waste and no squeezing the last bit out of a tube. For many people, the switch is as much about simplifying their bathroom shelf as it is about reducing plastic.

Choose the right toothpaste bits for your needs

Not all toothpaste bits are the same. Some are formulated with fluoride, while others are fluoride-free. If you prefer a fluoride-free option, Bite offers a Fluoride-Free Toothpaste in three flavors: Mint, Mint Charcoal, and Berry Twist. If you want a naturally whitening option, the original Bite Toothpaste Bits are a popular choice. Consider whether you want a single flavor or a kit that includes multiple products. The Day to Night Teeth Brightening Kit includes both Mint and Mint Charcoal bits plus a free bamboo toothbrush, which can be a helpful way to try two flavors at once.

Bamboo Toothbrush

bamboo toothbrush

How to use toothpaste bits correctly

Using toothpaste bits is slightly different from squeezing a tube. Start by taking one bit and placing it in your mouth. Chew it for a few seconds until it breaks down into a soft paste. Then, wet your toothbrush and brush as you normally would for two minutes. Spit out the excess, but avoid rinsing with water immediately so the ingredients can keep working. If you are used to a foamy toothpaste, give yourself a few days to adjust to the lighter texture. The key is to chew first, then brush—not the other way around.

Making the transition stick

The biggest hurdle is often habit. To make the switch easier, keep your bits in a visible spot on the sink, such as the refillable glass jar they come in. If you travel, transfer a few bits into a small container instead of carrying a tube. For the first week, you might brush with bits in the morning and use your old toothpaste at night, then gradually phase out the tube. Pay attention to how your mouth feels—most people find their teeth feel just as clean after a few days.

Your step-by-step switch plan

  1. Pick your first jar: Choose a toothpaste bit that matches your priorities—whether that is whitening, fluoride-free, or flavor variety. Start with one jar rather than a bulk order so you can test the texture and taste. Checkpoint: If you are unsure, a kit like the Day to Night Teeth Brightening Kit lets you try two flavors and includes a bamboo toothbrush.
  2. Chew, then brush: Place one bit in your mouth and chew for 5–10 seconds until it becomes a paste. Then wet your toothbrush and brush for two minutes. Spit, but do not rinse with water right away. Common mistake: Trying to brush without chewing first—the bit needs to break down to spread evenly.
  3. Store bits where you can see them: Keep your jar on the counter or in a visible spot. If you travel, pack a few bits in a small tin instead of a tube. This visual cue helps you remember to use them. Checkpoint: If you forget for a day, no problem—just pick up where you left off.
  4. Phase out your old tube gradually: Use bits for one brushing session a day for the first week, then increase. Keep your old toothpaste as a backup if that makes the transition feel easier. Common mistake: Going cold turkey and feeling frustrated—give yourself a week to adjust.
  5. Refill and repeat: Once you are comfortable, order refills for your glass jar. Bite offers refill options so you can keep the jar and reduce waste further. Next step: Try different flavors or add a fluoride-free option to your routine.

Products that support your switch

  • Naturally Whitening Mint Charcoal Toothpaste Bits - the ORIGINAL viral toothpaste tablets: Naturally Whitening Mint Charcoal Toothpaste Bits - the ORIGINAL viral toothpaste tablet, with over 20,000 five-star reviews and featured in Forbes, Women's Health, Business Insider, and Shark Tank. A proven starting point if you want a whitening option with a strong track record and a refillable glass jar.
  • Fluoride-Free Toothpaste: Fluoride-Free Toothpaste offers a simple, effective alternative without fluoride, harsh chemicals, or plastic packaging, available in Mint, Mint Charcoal, and Berry Twist. Ideal if you prefer a fluoride-free formula or want a flavor variety beyond mint.