While the toothbrush is often the very first item packed when someone gets ready to travel, mistakes happen sometimes, and it’s left behind. If you have lost or forgotten your toothbrush on a trip, and you’re not able to buy a replacement, here’s some ways you can still maintain your oral care habits.
paper towelsIf you have toothpaste:
Find a paper towel, the thicker, the better. Wrap the paper towel around your index finger and wet it just a little bit. Apply the toothpaste and use your finger as a makeshift brush. Start at the gumline and scrape the plaque from each tooth. Work your way inside your mouth, replacing the paper towel and reapplying the toothpaste as you go.
If you don’t have toothpaste:
Thoroughly wash your hands. You’ll need to use a clean, wet finger as a brush. Wipe each tooth from the gums to the tip to remove plaque. Make sure you continually clean your finger between “brushing” to avoid spreading bacteria from one tooth to another. You can also use a slightly damp paper towel to help wipe off any excess plaque. Afterwards, be sure to rinse well to loosen any particles stuck between your teeth.
Your own DIY toothpaste:
If salt and water are available, you can make your own toothpaste replacement. Saltwater has antibacterial qualities. Mix one or two teaspoons of salt with eight ounces of warm water. Apply the toothpaste with your finger or paper towel and brush as instructed above. The saltwater mixture can also be used as a rinse afterwards to help your mouth feel cleaner.
Mistakes happen. If you’re away on a trip with no toothbrush nearby, it’s still important to take care of your teeth. Just a couple days with no brushing can lead to serious problems. Follow these tips to help keep your teeth clean in a pinch.