Camping with a Smile
There's nothing like spending a hot summer weekend in the
great outdoors, paddling a canoe, hiking through the
woods, sleeping under the stars, leaving work and all of
your other responsibilities behind to be one with nature.
Well, maybe not all of your responsibilities.
Whether you're a regular outdoors man or an inexperienced
tag along, there's plenty of space in that backpack for
your toothbrush, so before you brave the 400 traffic
consider these oral hygiene tips for the outdoors.
1. Mouthwash: The Next Best Thing
Packing mouthwash can be a lifesaver on camping trips
when brushing your teeth isn't practical. While
mouthwash doesn't replace brushing, it helps in reducing
the level of oral bacteria to a minimum while fighting
against morning breath and other annoyances. Be sure to
purchase non-alcoholic mouthwash so it can be used by
campers of any age.
2. Stay Hydrated
Oral health ties into your overall health, and your
overall health is greatly affected by hydration. It is
easy to get dehydrated while relaxing all day in the sun,
and it is especially important to stay hydrated during
physical activities like swimming and hiking. Wherever
you go, it is a good idea to bring along a refillable
water bottle to ensure water is never out of reach.
3. Watch Your Diet
There are certain foods like chips, s'mores, and hotdogs
that have become camping trip staples at the expense of
your health. Why not cut back on these salty foods in
favor of something a little more beneficial and just as
enjoyable. Many fruits and vegetables like apples,
oranges, and brocolli are full of vitamins and nutrients
that help contribute to healthy gums and the formation of
enamel. Also, did you know that cheese contains natural
cavity fighting agents?
4. Watch Out For Bears!
Did you know that mint flavored toothpaste can actually
attract bears? When using mint flavored toothpaste,
floss, or mouthwash, be sure to walk a good distance from
your camp site and store these items in sealable bags
outside of your tent. The last thing you want is a bear
using your toothbrush!
No matter where you go, it is important to maintain
proper oral hygiene, because unlike you, bad breath and
tooth decay don't take days off.
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