Dental and Foot Care in the Field
Toothaches and blisters can end your ability to function. Prevent and treat them.
Question 1
The goal
Keep teeth and feet healthy without regular facilities.
Question 2
Materials
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
- Clean socks (2+ pairs)
- Moleskin or blister tape
- Foot powder
- Nail clippers
Question 3
Substitutes
- Chewed twig end as brush (e.g. green hardwood)
- Baking soda for toothpaste
- Duct tape over hot spots
Where to find it
| Material | Household | Wilderness | Urban / scavenged |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blister care | Bandages, tape | Duct tape | Pharmacy |
Question 4
Step by step
- 1
Brush teeth twice a day for 2 minutes and floss once — use bottled or treated water.
- 2
If out of toothpaste, brush with a little baking soda or just water.
- 3
Inspect your feet every evening for red 'hot spots', blisters and cuts.
- 4
Treat hot spots immediately: cover with moleskin or tape before a blister forms.
- 5
For blisters, don't pop unless large and painful; if you must, clean, use a sterilized needle at the edge, leave the roof on, cover.
- 6
Change into dry socks daily; dry wet socks on your body or by a fire.
- 7
Air out feet when resting and dust with powder.
- 8
Trim toenails straight across.
- 9
Watch for signs of infection: spreading redness, warmth, pus, fever — seek medical care.
Saved steps go to My Survival Notebook.
Question 5
The science
Plaque bacteria produce acids within hours of eating. Friction plus moisture causes blisters; dry, well-fitted footwear reduces both.
Question 6
Dangers & limits
- Dental abscesses can spread infection — seek care.
- Trench foot from wet feet days at a time.
- People with diabetes should check feet carefully every day.
Question 7
How you know it worked
No blisters after a full day of walking and no dental pain.