Now that summer is in full swing it’s time to break out the bathing suits, camping gear, and hit the road—but don’t forget to pack your toothbrush! Although summer is a time to relax and unwind, it’s important to stay on top of your dental hygiene no matter where your travels take you.
Taking care of your dental health while on vacation is fairly straightforward, and doesn’t involve too much extra planning. Here are our top tips on how to keep your teeth bright and healthy all summer long.
#1 Make a Dental Appointment Before You Leave
If have any ongoing dental concerns, it’s best to catch them before you’re in a foreign country or in the wilderness on a camping trip. One of the best things you can do to take care of your teeth is to make a routine cleaning appointment with your dentist. This way, your dentist can check for any sneaky cavities or underlying problems, plus your teeth will be freshly cleaned and ready for those vacation photo ops.
#2 Find Travel-Sized Oral Hygiene Products
If you’re traveling via airplane, we recommend finding travel-sized oral hygiene products to make packing and transportation more convenient. Travel sized toothpaste, mouthwash, and foldable or mini toothbrushes are all great solutions when the space in your suitcase is tight. Plus, it’s easier to find space for an extra mini toothbrush just in case you forget yours at home or in the hotel bathroom.
#3 Keep Your Toothbrush Ventilated
A damp toothbrush is a breeding ground for bacteria. We know that it’s sometimes impossible for your toothbrush to dry completely before you need to repack your bag and head to the next destination. Instead of storing your toothbrush in an airtight container or plastic bag, we recommend using a well-ventilated toothbrush cap. This will protect your brush from getting dirty while ensuring that the bristles dry completely in between uses.
#4 Only Brush with Potable Water
If you’re traveling somewhere that has unclean tap water, only brush your teeth with water you can drink. It may be hard to break the habit of brushing with tap water, but try to stay mindful and use bottled water to brush instead. Your teeth and your stomach will thank you!
#5 Pack Sugarless Gum
When you’re on the road, sometimes daily routines are disrupted. Maybe you have an overnight flight, early morning train, or simply get distracted sightseeing and forget to take care of your teeth. Sugarless gum is a great solution for quick and convenient oral hygiene on the go. Keep some ADA approved sugarless gum in your bag for emergency use so your teeth get a little TLC even on the tightest travel itinerary.
#5 Try Not to Chew on Ice
This tip applies to ice-munchers in any season, but most folks tend to enjoy more cold beverages in the summer months. Although crunching on ice-cubes may seem harmless, ice is much harder than you think and may actually be damaging to your teeth over time. If you can’t control your ice eating impulses, opt for frozen drinks (the ice is already blended) or cocktails served up instead of on the rocks.
#6 Be Mindful of Your Sugar Intake
Last but certainly not least, be aware of how much sugar you’re consuming on vacation. Vacation is a time to treat yourself—and that’s okay! The occasional ice cream cone isn’t going to ruin your teeth. With that said, be particularly mindful about consuming hidden sugars. Beverages like cocktails, smoothies, juices and sweet coffee drinks, are all extremely sugary, but may fly under the radar more easily. Be as moderate as possible, and when in doubt take a moment to brush your teeth after a sugary meal.
Find Care You Trust at Treasured Smiles Adult and Cosmetic Dentistry
Here at Treasured Smiles Adult and Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re dedicated to providing a high standard of care in a comfortable stress-free environment. Get ready for summer by visiting our office for a routine appointment or cosmetic consultation. Our team of dental professionals is committed to ensuring every patient receives the best care possible, and our state-of-the-art offices provide a relaxing environment complete with the newest in dental health technology.
Stay on top of your dental health all summer long. Contact Treasured Smiles Adult and Cosmetic Dentistry to schedule an appointment today.