Brushing and flossing is a routine, so why would travel make it any different? You pack your toothbrush, toothpaste, and some floss and you’re ready to go. Well, Dr. Martin wants you to keep a few more things in mind while you are out and about.
1. Visit Waco Dental before you go.
If you have been experiencing pain or discomfort, or if you just haven’t been to the dentist in the last 6 months, we highly recommend stopping by for a routine checkup before you go. We have heard the horror stories of cracked teeth, loose crowns, infections, and more canceling an entire family vacation. Avoid commotion, stress, and pain by scheduling your appointment and getting any necessary work done. We recommend at least 4 weeks in advance so you have plenty of time to get anything you might need & enjoy your vacation to the fullest.
2. Keep Things Clean
Throwing your toothbrush between your socks and shoes is not the best idea. It’s best if you disinfect a toiletries bag to keep all of your dental health supplies clean. A dirty toothbrush can harbor bacteria and viruses that will inevitably end up in your mouth & affect your oral health and general health. Do yourself a favor and keep your toothbrush clean while you travel.
3. Air It Out
Keeping your toothbrush in a closed & wet environment is NOT ideal. Bacteria feed off the moisture & can build within the bristles of your toothbrush. Instead, let your toothbrush dry out before placing it back into its case. If your toothbrush has been packed away wet in a ziplock bag in a travel case, we suggest unpacking, cleaning, and drying it before you use it.
4. Travel Toothbrush
There are many different types of travel toothbrushes and most of them come in a travel case for less than $6. These toothbrushes may not be the electric or ergonomic brush you have at home, but it is less likely to be carrying bacteria from being moved around. Once the trip is over you can dispose of the toothbrush easily. Many travel toothbrushes are even environmentally friendly.
5. Forgot the Toothpaste?
Toothpaste can be found in almost any area. If you can’t find a convenience store nearby, hotels will usually provide a small tube for free. (Even they understand brushing teeth is important!) Still, if you can’t find any toothpaste, you can still brush and floss. Simply use plain water and brush like normal. Toothpaste packs many different minerals and cleaning chemicals to help teeth stay healthy, smell good, and shine, but brushing & flossing are really the kings of oral health.
6. Water Quality
Many countries and even some cities in the US have harsh chemicals in their water. It may be second nature for you to run the sink and get brushing, but if you are unsure about the water quality or are experiencing sensitivity, use bottled water to brush and rinse.
7. Vacation Calories Don’t Count, RIGHT? They do for your teeth.
Delicious foods, new restaurants, and lavish desserts are all part of a great trip. By all means, enjoy the cuisine and everything your vacation entails, but take extra special care of your teeth. When traveling, many people don’t realize how many sugary sweets they are consuming and how much sugar they are introducing to the bacteria in their teeth. Having a late night means exposing your teeth to sugar for hours. Ideally, you would brush and floss between meals to keep bacteria at bay, but when in a tight spot, sugar-free gum can provide some clean-up of the sugar and food particles stuck around your teeth and gums.
Dr. Martin and the Waco Dental team want you to have a blast! We also want to make sure your smile is as healthy and strong as before you left. If you have any questions or concerns about your teeth, gums, or mouth in general, schedule an appointment with our dedicated team to ensure a happy, healthy, and fun vacation.
