5 Tips from Your Dentist for Keeping Your Smile Healthy While on Vacation

While it may be tempting to avoid your toothbrush during your vacation, the last thing you want on your trip is a toothache. Cutting corners on dental hygiene can put a real damper on your plans, even stranding you in your hotel room for the rest of your trip. With a little self-discipline, you can make sure your smile is shining for all of your adventures (and vacation selfies)! In this post, your dentist gives you a couple easy tips to get the most out of your travels.

Keeping Your Summer Smile Healthy

On top of these steps, make sure to complete any special care that your teeth require.

Pack the Essentials

Make sure to pack your dental essentials — a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and mouthwash. While it may seem obvious, these items are easy to forget and may be unavailable or much more expensive at your destination. Use a toothbrush cover while you travel to ensure cleanliness.

Stick to Your Routine

Before rushing off to your next adventure, make sure to stick to your oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth twice a day and use floss and mouthwash daily.

Watch Your Diet

Vacation is a time to indulge and experiment with new cuisines. While you should enjoy these foods, be aware of your sugar consumption. Alternate sugary drinks with water or use a straw to keep the majority of the liquid away from your teeth. Follow desserts with water to wash away most of the sugar. Try packing healthy snacks in advance to save both your money and your teeth!

Visit Your Dentist Before You Go

Swing by your family dentist for a checkup before you go. This will save you the hassle of a dental problem away from home, which can be expensive. This step is especially important if you have some tooth discomfort or other minor issue you’ve been meaning to follow up on.

Avoid Common Myths

Use common sense before falling for popular dental care myths. Keep the following in mind:

• Mouthwash shouldn’t be used in place of brushing your teeth
• Brushing once a day isn’t enough to properly clean your teeth
• A twig and campfire ash can’t substitute a toothbrush and toothpaste

Oral hygiene is extremely important during your travels. Luckily, it’s also pretty easy to keep up with! Plan ahead and try to make smart dental decisions to enjoy your vacation to the fullest. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist if you have any questions or concerns while traveling.

About the Author

Dr. Maegan Elam combines passion and expertise to give the best care possible to her patients. During her studies, she received the Award in Clinical Excellence for her superior care and service. Outside of the office, Dr. Elam loves to travel with her husband and two children. If you would like more oral hygiene tips, she can be contacted through her website or at (817) 283-2871.

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