Summer is for fun in the sun and enjoying the great outdoors. If you’ve ever packed light for a camping trip, it’s likely that there has been a time where you may have forgotten to bring a toothbrush or another daily care essential. No big deal, right? After all, camping in general isn’t necessary the most hygienic activity. It’s not as if you can always wash your hands or toss used wipes or food containers in a conveniently located trash bin. When you’re roughing it, the rules are a little different, but a couple of days is still enough time to enable a lot of unwanted bacteria to build up in your mouth. From packing a portable toothbrush to using bottled water to rinse, these oral hygiene tips will help protect your smile on your next camping trip.

Tip #1: Always pack a toothbrush. There are many portable toothbrush options that pack up small and have protective covers that keep dirty and other outdoor substances away from the bristles. It’s also important to pack your own toothbrush, as sharing a toothbrush can lead to some bacterial consequences.

Tip #2: Bring bottled water. The best way to prevent unwanted bacteria from getting into your mouth is to use bottled water to rinse after brushing. This isn’t entirely about your oral health either. Did you know, that discarding toothpaste into a nearby bush or tree can be dangerous for the local fauna? Many animals are attracted to the sweet-mint smell and can get sick when they ingest the discarded toothpaste. By swishing your mouth with water after brushing, you can dilute the toothpaste, leaving little trace that you were ever there.

Tip 3: Make sure to keep your toothbrush in a sealed container. As mentioned earlier, many animals, big and small, have an affinity for the mint smell, so leaving your toothbrush and paste in your bag unattended can be a bit risky. The best idea is to seal your oral care tools in a plastic bag and store it near your food. Because campers already know to protect their food from hungry critters, it won’t require an extra step to keep your toothpaste locked away, too.

Tip 4: Pack xylitol gum. Some camping trips tend to be an excuse to eat and drink bad-for-you treats. These treats, however, tend to cause bacteria to build up—especially when our oral care routines have been simplified to accommodate the camping trip. Chewing a piece of gum that’s sweetened with xylitol can increase saliva production, which helps breakdown the sugar that clings to teeth. Your best bet is to grab a piece between your morning and evening cleanings.

Remember, daily brushing and flossing (even on camping trips) can help minimize the bad bacteria that causes plaque and other dental problems. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are another great way to keep your grin looking its best. For the latest and best information about your specific needs, talk to your dentist. The dental care team at Tigard TenderCare are happy to provide the best in dental care and help you determine what procedures to schedule and how to maintain good oral health and a brilliant smile outside the office.