Vacations are a great way to leave it all behind for a little while. It’s also easy for some people to take a vacation from their oral health habits, which can be dangerous. Long car rides or busy airports can prevent us from maintaining good care of our teeth and gums during the trips because we don’t have the same routines as we do at home. Here are some tips on taking care of your teeth and gums while traveling:
Find portable oral hygiene products
Get a collapsible toothbrush, a disposable tooth flosser or a roll of floss fits easily into your purse or carry-on. Depending on your destination, it might be a good idea to pack extra oral care supplies. Some hotels also have disposable toothbrushes at the desk, and in a pinch, you can brush your teeth with just water. You’ll still be removing plaque from your teeth, as long as you brush properly.
Pack healthy snacks
Pack some tooth-friendly treats to help you keep your mouth clean. Crunchy fruits and veggies, like apples and celery are best, because they stimulate saliva flow, which helps cleanse your teeth. Also, chewing sugar-free gum after meals, especially gum that contains xylitol, helps get the bacteria off your teeth. Of course, we all tend to indulge a little bit more when we’re on vacation, but too many sugary snacks can really do a number on our teeth and gums. Try to limit your intake while you’re away.
Brush during bathroom breaks
Especially during road trips with kids, bathroom breaks happen often. By taking your portable toothbrush and floss with you when the time hits, you can take advantage of the frequent pit stops. It’s a good time to break out the mini-toothbrush and disposable floss sticks. If nothing else, give your mouth a good rinse after eating during these stops.
Enjoy your spring break adventure this year, and don’t forget to visit your dentist twice a year to maintain great oral health!
