For many people, summer means that it’s time to go on vacation. While it’s important to enjoy a few well-deserved days off once in a while, you should also remember that tooth decay and gum disease won’t go on holiday just because you are. Proper oral hygiene and smart eating habits are crucial parts of ensuring a good time on your trip, so here’s a brief overview of how to keep your smile healthy and avoid dental emergencies while traveling during your summer vacation.
Pack an Oral Hygiene Travel Kit
If you’re looking for an easy way to take your oral hygiene routine on the road, consider putting together a travel-sized oral hygiene kit. Start with a small bag that is easy to clean, and fill it with essential supplies such as:
- A toothbrush
- Dental floss
- A travel-sized tube of toothpaste
- A travel-sized bottle of mouthwash
- Any orthodontic supplies you use
This kit will allow you to stay equipped for excellent oral health when traveling from hotel to hotel or camping out in the great outdoors.
Practice Smart Eating Habits
Nasty oral infections like tooth decay and gum disease are just as likely to set in when you are on vacation as they are during any normal workweek. While traveling, remember to keep water as your primary beverage, as it will keep you hydrated enough for healthy saliva flow while helping to flush your mouth clean of food debris and harmful bacteria. Items that are heavy with sugar such as soda and candy can feed these germs so that they can multiply more rapidly, leading to painful infections that may require emergency treatment.
Find an Emergency Dentist Ahead of Time
Even if you practice excellent oral hygiene and maintain a perfect diet while on vacation, there is still the possibility that you will have a dental emergency. Before you leave, research emergency dentists at your destination so you can have somewhere to go for treatment if something happens to your teeth. You may even want to ask your dentist to recommend a provider who practices around your vacation destination.
Having excellent oral health can help you maintain an attractive appearance and feel comfortable while having your summertime fun. With a little care and preparation, you can rest assured that your smile will look just as great at the end of your vacation as it did at its start.
About the Author
Dr. Hal M. Lippard earned his dental doctorate at the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry where he was awarded the Armed Forces Health Professionals Scholarship. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry, and his office in Charlottesville, VA, offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. To schedule an appointment before you leave for your vacation, contact his office online or dial (434) 293-9311.