When
you or your family travels, proper dental hygiene isn't often at the
top of the priority list. No matter whether it's fun in the sun, a
trip to be spoiled by grandparents, or a busy work itinerary, many
things can cause dental care to fade into the background.
While
you don't need to obsess over your dental routine while traveling, a
little preparation can help keep your teeth in their best shape
during and after your trip. What are some of these simple steps to
get your smile ready for the trip? Try a few of these.
Get
a Checkup
Before
leaving for an extended trip, or if you haven't visited the dentist
in a while, schedule a checkup and cleaning. The last thing you want
is to experience a dental emergency while on the road. A simple
checkup will help ensure that this doesn't happen. While you're in
the office, have a proper cleaning too. Clean teeth will make your
smile brighter in photos, and it even gives you the opportunity to
have a little whitening done if needed.
Keep
a Routine
Routines
are sometimes more important when you're in a strange situation or
not doing normal daily activities. Good routines provide stability
and comfort when on the road. And, unlike at home, you often
don't have access to everything all the time, so you don't get
an easy do-over if you miss hygiene care. Help yourself — and
particularly your kids — stay healthy by making a habit of
developing a good hygiene habit before the trip.
Pack
Travel Items
Make
a little pouch or box for your dental hygiene items within your
luggage. The advantage of keeping everything together is quick
access, needed supplies, and less chance of losing something. After
all, no one wants to lose their toothbrush when arriving for a two
week stay in the Amazon!
Your
dental travel bag doesn't need to be complex — perhaps just the
basic needs like a toothbrush and paste, floss, mouthwash, and some
picks. You may also want to keep its size down by purchasing
travel-sized items and a brush that folds down for convenience.
Keep
Things Dry
Don't
let bacteria grow in your dental supplies. A toothbrush needs to air
out during the day to prevent germs from building up on the wet
parts. However, when on vacation, many people let their dental
supplies linger in a moist, closed environment. Dry off the brush
daily by leaving it open to the air. Do the same for your supplies
pouch. When on the road, use ventilated covers when possible.
Choose
Good Foods
Do
you love to indulge when on vacation? Most people do, and this is
just fine. But do alternate sugary foods with healthier options for
your teeth. Pack some sugarless snacks before you leave, especially
if you have little ones, and look for less sugar-filled food choices
when it's convenient. And be careful with acidic foods. Too many
citrus fruits, for instance, can be hard on tooth enamel.
When
having fun eating and drinking on vacation, be careful with food that
might cause tooth chipping or cracking. Particularly hard foods could
even break a tooth, either resulting in an unexpected dental
adventure in a strange place or a toothless smile on your social
media feeds. Enjoy yourself, but don't risk your teeth just to try
something different.
Have
you prepared your family's dental health plans before heading out on
a big trip? Family Dental Care of Wilmington can
help. We offer checkups, routine services, cleaning and advice to
ensure everyone has a great vacation while staying healthy. Call
today to make an appointment.
