Traveling during your summer vacation helps to shake up your routine. While spending time in a new environment is great for your mental health, you also want to make sure that traveling doesn’t negatively impact your teeth and gums. Maintaining good oral hygiene during your travels helps to give you a bright smile for those amazing vacation photos, and you’ll enjoy knowing that your teeth are still in great condition when you get home.
Understand the Impact of Summer Vacations On Oral Health
Changing up your routine helps to keep your mind flexible. But, trying to hit all of the items on your itinerary can cause you to lapse on your regular oral health regimen. Falling into bed or rushing out the door without brushing your teeth can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
You may also find yourself eating more processed foods while you’re on the road or flying to your destination, which tends to cause more bacterial buildup in your mouth. Depending upon where you travel, you might also find it hard to access your preferred oral care products or even see a dentist if you develop a sudden toothache.
Follow These Top Tips for Maintaining Oral Health While Traveling
Summer vacations may involve a few challenges with maintaining proper oral hygiene, but there are ways to stay on top of it all. You can start by packing a few basic oral care essentials. A travel-sized toothbrush, dental floss, and mouthwash won’t occupy much space in your luggage. But seeing them in the bathroom of your hotel room can remind you to use them each night and in the morning.
You’ll also want to strive to create a consistent routine. While it might seem overwhelming, the truth is that brushing your teeth twice a day only takes two minutes to prevent cavities and gum disease. Once you’re at your destination, try to tie your oral hygiene routine to other parts of your schedule. Brushing your teeth before you head out in the morning and before you go to bed at night makes it a natural part of your vacation life.
Making healthy food choices is another excellent way to maintain oral health while enjoying local cuisine. Many of the best foods for teeth and gum health are local delicacies. You can enjoy sampling a local cheese when you know that it contains phosphate, which helps to maintain a good pH balance in your mouth. If you’re looking for a way to clean your teeth on the go and satisfy your appetite, then look for fresh veggies and crunchy fruit like apples, which help to brush away plaque.
Recognize the Importance of a Post-Vacation Oral Health Check
Even with the best care, you might still develop plaque buildup or cavities. Scheduling a post-vacation dental exam allows our team to identify new issues early and recommend the best treatment. You’ll also enjoy having a bright smile when you share the highlights of your adventures with your friends and family.
Schedule Your Post-Vacation Oral Health Check
Traveling during your summer vacation should only leave you with good memories. Being proactive about oral health can help you avoid coming home with cavities as a souvenir. Packing oral health supplies, eating teeth-friendly foods, and sticking to your oral health routine are all great ways to preserve your teeth. Once you get home, Premier Dental and Cosmetic Family Dentistry is here to give you a post-vacation oral health exam that ensures your smile stays in top condition for your next trip to an exciting destination. Call us today!
