You unpack at the hotel and don't find it, head out on a camping trip and forget to pack it, find yourself with less-than-clean teeth during a long day at work--not having a toothbrush on hand can make you feel like your smile is dirtier than ever. While some people resort to scrubbing their teeth with the backside of their sleeve or a napkin, there are actually some pretty easy ways to brush your teeth or get them cleaner even when you don't have a toothbrush on hand. Keep your smile clean when you don't have a toothbrush with these quick tips. 

Rinse, gargle, repeat. 

If you have access to a glass or bottle of water, you can clean up your teeth pretty good with just water alone. Take a big swig into your mouth and swish it around much like you would if you were using mouthwash. Gargle to loosen plaque on the back teeth as well. The water moving through your mouth will help to loosen small food particles and remove the dirty feeling. Repeat the process several times and a lot of the plaque or buildup on your teeth will be removed. 

Chew sugar-free gum. 

Chewing gum is a great way to freshen your breath when your smile is feeling less than clean, but chewing gum can also remove some of the residue that builds up on the enamel of each tooth. Don't go for the sticky, sugary sweet brands that can actually be harmful to your teeth. Instead, opt for the sugar-free varieties that do not have the same sticky consistency. As you chew, the gum loosens plaque and tartar to give you a cleaner smile. As an added bonus, chewing gum helps produce more saliva in your mouth, which will naturally keep your teeth cleaner. 

Grab some crunchy fresh veggies and get munching. 

In a pinch, a few stalks of celery, carrots, or even fresh broccoli or cauliflower can help you clean your teeth. The crispy texture of these foods helps to scrub away the dirt on your teeth and neutralize bad breath odors that may be associated. Plus, these foods are healthy enough you can eat them anytime you like. So if you are out and have access to these foods when your teeth are feeling really gritty and dirty, go ahead and give yourself an extra healthy snack that cleans your teeth at the same time. 

For more information, talk to a professional like Dillon Family Dental PLLC.