Ahh..the sweet relaxation of summertime! As we head into this sunny season, there’s no better time to pack up for a summer getaway.
Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, taking a trip this summer can be a pretty stressful ordeal. In the process of traveling, it can also be quite easy to put your dental health on the backburner.
We strongly encourage our patients here in Kingston, to stay on top of their dental health whether they’re traveling or not. Keeping up an oral hygiene routine along with bi-annual visits to the dentist is the only way to ensure you maintain a lifelong healthy smile.
Taking a Vacation From Dental Care? Think Again!
While vacations provide a nice escape from daily responsibilities, there are certain tasks that should never fall by the wayside. Taking care of your smile is a daily chore that should always be a priority. Some of the best ways to maintain great oral health while traveling include:
Stick to Your Oral Hygiene Routine: Removing cavity-causing bacteria and food particles from your teeth is key to avoiding dental problems. The most effective way of doing this is by brushing at least twice a day for two minutes and flossing each day.
During your vacation, don’t stray from this routine. Keeping up with this daily oral hygiene routine will keep your smile healthy well beyond just the extent of your trip.
Pack the Right Supplies: Along with our last point, it’s equally important to keep your dental care supplies handy. If you’re headed out for a vacation, be sure to pack a toothbrush, floss, and mouthwash.
Be Wary of Travel Cases: The cleanliness of travel cases is often overlooked. According to a survey from the American Academy of Periodontology, one-third of travelers admit to never washing out their toothbrush cases.
It’s also important to note that you should opt for a container that provides air circulation. A case that tightly holds your toothbrush is the ideal environment for bacteria to flourish. To avoid this issue, allow your toothbrush to air dry before putting it away.
Plan Smart for Travel Duration: How long are you going to be on vacation? It’s a good idea to pack back-up supplies if your vacation is longer than a week. It’s also helpful to be mindful of where you place your oral care products. For example, it may be a good idea to keep your oral care products in your carry-on luggage if you have a long flight where you’ll need access to them.
Snack Wisely: During long car rides or flights, it’s easy for travelers to mindlessly snack. Unfortunately, snacking for long periods of time can cause quite a bit of damage to your dental health. Opt for crunchy fruits or veggies to snack on rather than sugar-filled treats.
Visit Dr. Ian Smith Before Your Travel Plans
The only thing worse than a toothache? Dealing with a toothache while traveling!
Avoid this problem altogether by scheduling an appointment with your dentist prior to traveling. At this appointment, Dr. Ian Smith will examine your oral health to spot and treat any potential problems before you leave town.
If you plan to travel soon, contact our office to schedule your appointment today!