Here’s What You Need For Vacation-Ready Teeth

This article was originally published on adnwi.com on Aug 28, 2017

Whether you are going on a week-long road trip, heading out of the country to an exotic locale, or just seeing some new sights around Indiana, going on vacation can be an exciting and rejuvenating break from day-to-day work and activities. As you are getting your R&R, however, there is one thing you shouldn’t take a timeout from: your dental health. Unfortunately for you, cavity-causing bacteria are always at work, so you need to be prepped and ready to combat them at all times.

Here are a few dental hygiene tips to keep in mind as you hit the road, no matter where the path may lead.

Pack Wisely

Don’t forget to add your toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, and other dental hygiene routine necessities to your packing list. If you are flying and plan to carry-on, be sure to invest in some travel-size versions of any of these essentials that are liquid or gel-based, or buy them as soon as you land at your destination. If you use dentures or have orthodontics, remember to pack cleaning and comfort supplies, such as tablets and wax. Retainers and Invisalign treatments should also find a place next to your flip-flops and swimsuit.

Plan Ahead

Before you head out, schedule appointments for you and your family members to address concerns about any dental sensitivity and loose or damaged teeth. One of the last things you want to do is deal with a toothache during a long flight or be stuck in a strange dentist office at your destination when you would rather be out exploring and enjoying your time away. If you do find yourself in a situation where you need to see a dentist while traveling, confirm that they are ADA compliant before booking an appointment, and be sure to keep a record of what treatments occurred and have them transferred to your home dental office.

Play Catchup

Stay up late catching up on your favorite shows? Sleep in the next morning? You might find that your regular routine is thrown off a little bit when you are in a vacation state of mind. Take time to stick to your dental hygiene routine regardless, and try not to get too lax with your mouth maintenance. It’s better to brush and floss a little later or earlier than usual than to not do it at all.

Avoid Problem Foods

Dining out while traveling can mean anything from luxurious meals composed of local cuisine to quick bite at fast food joints and gas stations. No matter your situation, keep an eye on what you eat. Just like you would on any other day, avoid consuming excess amounts of staining liquids, like coffee, tea, soda, or wine. If you do indulge, be sure to brush up after. Also be mindful of how many sweets you eat. Candy makes for an excellent road trip snack, but it’s substances can easily build up and form plaque on your teeth. Have fun, but keep things in moderation.

Although you can take a vacation from work and stress, it’s not such a good idea to take a break from dental hygiene. If you have any questions about how to make your tooth care work on the go, don’t hesitate to reach out.