You’ve been working hard, and now it’s time for a vacation! Don’t forget all the good oral hygiene habits you’ve developed and leave those at home. It’s easy – and the right thing to do – to take care of your teeth while you’re away.
Prepare for Take-off
Before your vacation, plan to visit the dentist for a checkup, get any issues fixed (like a filling), or complete any major dental treatments before you leave. Any needed digital X-rays or cleaning that might be due are ideal pre-vacation tasks to avoid any issues. This approach will set you on your way with confidence and minimize any potential problems while you’re away.
Dental Emergency Kit
You already carry a first-aid kit when traveling, right? Simply add in items such as pain relievers and dental wax (which can protect a tooth’s sharp edges if it’s accidentally chipped) to take care of yourself in the case of a dental emergency. You never know when this might come in handy, but you’ll be glad you packed it if it’s needed.
On-the-go Dental Care
Make sure you, and everyone traveling with you, has a dental hygiene travel kit that includes a toothbrush, toothpaste, small mouthwash, and floss. Consider quick, disposable toothbrushes or floss sticks to use when you’re away. Small, compact oral hygiene items can easily fit in your bag or backpack and help you use them while on the go.
Protect Your Toothbrush
Whether you are bringing a new travel toothbrush or your fully charged electric toothbrush, take care of it while you travel. Always let the bristles of your toothbrush dry between brushing. While you’re traveling, cover the head of the toothbrush to avoid any bacteria that might be picked up in your luggage. Toothbrush covers are available that have holes for ventilation and are anti-bacterial, which are a good solution to keeping your toothbrush clean.
Keep Up Your Healthy Habits!
Although you might be leaving your fitness regime at home while you’re away, if you have a mouthguard or retainer from braces or Invisalign® treatments, be sure to take it with you! You’ve worked hard to get your smile in the best possible shape, and your teeth need the protection and alignment that your retainer provides.
Snack Healthily
It’s easy to indulge in desserts, sticky foods or sugary drinks while you’re away, but try and avoid the temptation each day on vacation! Plan your vacation days around fun things to do and not around meals. While you treat yourself to some tasty meals, just be sure to pack and bring along some healthy snack options to keep your teeth in great shape while you play.
Pop a Mint
Sometimes long travel or flight times can keep you away from your dental hygiene habits longer than you’d like. Keep your mouth as clean as possible, in between brushing and flossing, with sugarless gum or a sugar-free or xylitol mint (xylitol stimulates saliva flow, which will help cleanse your teeth). If you have the option, enjoy a cup of green tea that can also help protect your teeth!
Don’t let a dental issue become the lasting memory of your holiday. There’s no better way to ensure a healthy mouth – before, during, and after your holiday – than to take care of your teeth, just like you do at home. A fresh, clean mouth will make you feel healthy and happy, ready for any adventure!
