How Maintain Good Oral Health While Traveling
With Spring Break and Summer quickly approaching, those few perfect months for beach vacations, camping trips, and family excursions are near. These are the most exciting times for your families, filled with activities and treats. Unfortunately, all the hustle and bustle can be detrimental to your oral health. Here are a few tips to make sure that everyone is all smiles during time away.
Pack Appropriately
The stress of preparing for a trip means important items can be forgotten, so put oral hygiene at the top of the list. Few things are as important as your health, and even someone who gets regular checkups and cleanings will suffer by leaving their toothbrush at home. If nothing else, make sure to pack the big three: a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss.
There are a few specifics to consider when packing these items. We recommend having a second toothbrush for traveling, so that your at-home toothbrush will remain clean and in good condition. There are collapsible toothbrushes that can fit inside limited luggage space and TSA approved toothpaste sizes if you’re only taking a carry-on. Finally, investing in a toothbrush holder so that your toothbrush stays clean while packed in a bag with dirty shoes and souvenirs.
Schedule a Checkup Before You Go
We always suggest scheduling your preventative appointments every six months. That will ensure your oral health stays in check and nothing will surprise you while you are away. But, if you are about to embark on a journey, it’s especially important to consider seeing us before you leave. Dental problems can escalate quickly and the last thing you want is emergency care from an out-of-town (or out-of-country) dentist who doesn’t know your history. Making an appointment before you leave will ensure that you get to experience your vacation to the fullest without surprises.
Emergencies Can Happen
Even the most prepared vacationers can experience troubles while traveling. That doesn’t mean they are caught off-guard. There are a few things you can do to make sure dental emergencies go smoothly. Bring a copy of your dental insurance and a list of your regular dental contacts if you need to reach them. Make sure to ask your insurance company about emergency care policies, especially if you are leaving the country. By being well prepared for your trip, everyone will be well taken care of, even if you are hundreds of miles away from home.
Consider Special Obstacles
Many of us like to experience new things when we travel. That can mean late nights, sweet treats or even going off-grid. It’s easy to forget your tooth care routines when your environment changes. Consider the challenges you may encounter and prepare for them. If you are camping, there is environmentally-friendly toothpaste and mouthwash in times where no plumbing is available. Some people bring handheld floss picks that make it easier to reach without a mirror. Setting a reminder on your phone can help you remember to brush when you are especially tired from a long day of adventure. And in times of minimal space, you can always grab a pre-pasted toothbrush.
Vacation is the most fun time of the year and with a few steps before you leave you and your family’s teeth will be well prepared! By considering these obstacles, packing appropriately and planning ahead, you’ll ensure that everyone will happily flash those pearly whites in all their photos.
If you need special travel accessories or more tips, call us at 757-609-3510 or visit this link to schedule an appointment or with us before you take off. Safe travels!
