8 Travel Tips for Healthy Teeth
It’s travel season! The perfect time to kick back, relax, and take a break. That doesn’t mean it’s time to give your teeth a break. Even on vacation, it’s important to make sure you take care of your oral health. It can be a little tricky so we made a list of 8 tips on how to take care of your teeth when heading out for the summer.
Check with your dentist before leaving
No one wants their vacation interrupted by a toothache or a nasty cavity. Come stop by before you head out to make sure there’s nothing to worry about.
Pack your toothbrush
You can’t brush your teeth without your toothbrush! It’s important to pack it but make sure you pack it correctly. Before you put your toothbrush in a travel case to visit your destination, make sure it’s dry and your case is clean, no one wants bacteria growing on their toothbrush. Getting a case with ventilation can help with this as well.
If you forget your toothbrush or have that extra long flight don’t worry. Until you get a toothbrush rinse your mouth with clean water or brush with a clean washcloth or finger.
Watch your sugar consumption
Even though you’re on vacation, sugar isn’t taking a break from building up on your teeth. Enjoy your favorite sweets, but make sure to eat some foods that help your oral health as well such as:
- yogurt
- apples
- cranberries
- almonds
- and carrots
Be prepared for an emergency
Although it’s unlikely a dental emergency may happen never say never. Understand your out-of-network coverage for your insurance if you need to visit the dentist and an in-network provider is unavailable.
If you are out of the country and have a dental emergency don’t wait until you get home. Contact a U.S. embassy or consulate for a recommendation and make sure to keep a receipt of the dental emergency so you can file a claim form when you return home.
Make sure your water is clean
Depending on where your vacation spot is the water may not be suitable for your teeth. Make sure to do your research on the water supply. A good rule is if it is not drinkable it is best to use bottled water for brushing your teeth.
Carry the essentials with you
To make it easier to keep up with your routine, keep your oral health essentials with you. Buy travel-size items to keep them close on road trips and flights.
Have sugar-free gum
If you want to carry gum for your flight to help get rid of that ear pressure or just to freshen up your breath, make sure it is sugar-free and has been approved by the American Dental Association. According to the ADA, chewing sugar-free gum can help prevent cavities so it may not be the worst pastime when sitting in the airport.
Keep your routine
With the excitement of travel, it can be difficult to prioritize your oral health, but the need to brush doesn’t go away. Be sure to brush, floss, and use mouthwash, and lastly enjoy your vacation!
