Traveling can be both a thrilling and also hectic experience for anybody. Whether it is by plane, train, boat, or car, there can be so much going on that one may forget to stay on top of their oral hygiene practices.
A mouth has many important jobs, from talking, smiling, chewing, or tasting. It is paramount that it should be taken care of, even if you are on a lengthy vacation or a short trip. Here are some helpful tips that you can bring with you on your travels:
6 Tips for Keeping Good Oral Hygiene While Traveling
Before Traveling
Book an Appointment
Before you head out on your holiday, why not book an appointment with your dentist. Doing so will help spot any issues or potential problems that can be prevented. The last thing you want is an unexpected scare like a cracked tooth or a damaged crown while you are away. Check out this dentist in Delray beach Florida if you’re looking for a reliable one.
Pack the Essentials
Make sure to pack your essential oral hygiene products, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, and/or mouthwash. Luckily, there are travel-sized versions of these products that are handy for any tight packing or short trips. Colgate states that a 3.4-ounce travel-size tube of toothpaste is ideal, as it is the maximum amount that TSA (Transport Security Administration) will allow onboard a flight. This tube will last you for at least 9-10 brushings (for about five days).
It does not hurt to have backup dental supplies, like an extra toothbrush or floss, in case you end up losing or misplacing yours. If you forget any of these supplies, many hotels sell them.
During Your Journey
Accessibility
Keeping your oral hygiene items in a convenient and accessible space, like a travel bag, will help in organizing them. This way, you will not have to worry about where they are if kept in one designated spot.
Clean and Dry
Make sure you keep your bag and toothbrush clean and dry. Packing it into your bag while wet should be avoided, as the moisture will feed bacteria that will spread onto your brush and other belongings. When you can, clean your bag regularly to avoid this issue.
If your trip looks like it is going to be a busy one and you do not want to worry about the drying and cleaning process, you can always purchase a pack of disposable toothbrushes. They are convenient and easy to dispose of. They might not feel as nice as the toothbrush you are used to, but at least you will be worry-free when it comes to the spread of bacteria. Remember to brush your teeth gently, as brushing too hard can be one of the causes of sensitive teeth.
Safe Water
You may be so used to drinking or rinsing your mouth with tap water that it could potentially slip your mind when you are traveling abroad. While at your destination, you will want to make sure the water is safe for you to drink. If the water is not safe, you definitely do not want to rinse your mouth with it after you brush your teeth. Sticking to bottled water instead is a better idea that will be safe to drink and to use when it comes time for your oral hygiene routine.
Watch What You Eat
Trying to avoid sugary foods helps keep our teeth healthy. Avoiding them while you are on vacation might be tougher. It is okay to indulge once in a while, but steering clear of an excessive amount of sugar will make for a positive outcome while you are away.
Partaking in healthy snacks and foods is an obvious benefit, not only for you but for your teeth as it will prevent cavities. Aiming for foods like baby carrots, bananas, apple slices, cheese, or celery with peanut butter is always a delicious and healthy alternative.
Avoiding foods that might hurt or potentially damage your teeth will also prove beneficial, as you do not want to have to deal with that misfortune when you are supposed to be enjoying your holiday.
Everybody knows how busy and consuming a trip can be, which is why it is easy to forget about or neglect your regular oral hygiene routine. By making a checklist ahead of your travels, keeping up with brushing and flossing can be as easy as it is when you’re at home.
