Dental Tips When Traveling
Maintain Good Dental Health During Summer Travel
Are you and your family getting ready for some fun summer travel? Great! Whether you’re planning to carve out time to relax, or gearing up for an action-packed adventure, be sure that your summer travel doesn’t include taking a break from your dental routine. Even when you’re on vacation, your teeth still need TLC. That’s why Dr. E urges everyone to remember the following tips for good dental health while traveling:
Pack Properly. Make sure your packing list includes your toothbrush, toothpaste and floss. Invest in a travel toothbrush and toothpaste kit or pack your regular toothbrush in a resealable plastic bag – away from the other items you pack – in order to keep it sanitary and clean. When you arrive at your destination, open the bag to let your toothbrush air-dry.
Choose Healthy Snacks. Good snacks are a MUST for every family road trip! While some sweet treats to keep the kids happy are OK, be sure to include healthy options, too. Pack a cooler with pre-cut fruits and veggies likes broccoli, carrot sticks, and apple slices for healthy, easy snacking. And keep plenty of bottled water on hand instead of juice boxes, sodas or other sugary options. Your teeth – or at least your dentist – will thank you later!
Grab the Gum. Chewing gum has long been a go-to during airplane flights to help relieve the build up of ear pressure. But did you know that chewing sugarless gum following meals gets your saliva flowing and helps wash away cavity-inducing bacteria? Look for gum with the ADA seal and bring several packs with you during your trip!
Make Time for “Brush Stops.” Just as you make time for rest stops during long road trips, keep toothbrushes accessible for easy “brush ups.” It’s more than likely that you’ve been snacking on the road and your teeth will be ready for a quick clean during these pit stops. Then, once you arrive at your final destination, give your teeth a more thorough cleaning.
Use Good Sense Overseas. International travel can pose unique challenges for your dental health. Especially if you are in a destination where there is a risk of water contamination. When in doubt, NEVER drink the local water or use it to brush your teeth. Opt for bottled water instead for drinking and brushing. And, if you experience a dental emergency overseas, immediately call your dentist and describe your symptoms. If they can’t address your dental concerns over the phone and recommend that you seek help right away, contact the local consulate or embassy a soon as possible for a referral to a qualified dentist. Don’t ever leave your dental health to chance!
Wherever you’re headed this summer, Dr. E Cosmetic & Family Dentistry wishes you and your family safe travels AND good dental hygiene!
Be sure to contact Dr. E for an appointment when you return from your trip!
www.drefamilydental.com
480-494-2435