Even if you’re currently on vacation for the summer, you still need to be mindful of your oral health. Tooth decay and other potentially severe dental issues can happen at any time, and the best way to protect yourself from them is to make sure that you’re always taking excellent care of your smile. Below are a few tips from your dentist that you can use to protect your teeth and gums even when you’re out of town.
Always Bring Your Toothbrush and Other Dental Supplies
When you’re packing, double-check to make sure that you’re bringing all of the necessary dental supplies with you. The last thing you want is to end up with a cavity because you left your toothbrush sitting on your bathroom counter.
It’s a good idea to confirm that you have enough toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash for the duration of your trip. Take a look at the head of your toothbrush as well; if the bristles are frayed, it may be a good idea to switch to a new brush while you still can.
Try Not to Stray from Your Oral Hygiene Routine
It’s easy enough to remember to brush your teeth twice a day when you’re sticking to your regular schedule. But when you’re on vacation, not every day will look alike; you could end up forgetting to brush because you slept in or returned to your hotel room later than usual. Think about your oral hygiene habits and consider the different steps you might be able to take to ensure you stick to your regular dental care routine.
Don’t Believe Myths About Dental Hygiene
You may have heard of people using twigs and campfire ash to clean their teeth while camping. However, this is very much not recommended; it’s always better to use an actual toothbrush and ADA-approved toothpaste. Being able to separate fact from fiction is important if you want to keep your smile safe. Remember that you can talk to your dentist if there’s anything you’re uncertain about when it comes to the care you’re giving your teeth.
Think About What You Eat On Vacation
Summer is a great time to try out all kinds of new foods while also indulging in ice cream and other treats to cool off. However, it’s important to make sure that you aren’t consuming too much sugar in any form if you want to keep your risk of developing cavities to a minimum. Only eat sugary foods in moderation, and don’t forget to wash out your mouth with water afterward.
Set Up a Pre-Vacation Dental Appointment
At some point before you leave on vacation, you should make the time to see your dentist. A quick checkup and cleaning could help you avoid dental problems while you’re away from home. You can also take the opportunity to ask about oral hygiene during your visit.
About the Author
Dr. Jay Oza currently belongs to the Fort Worth District Dental Society as well as the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association. He makes a point of attending continuing education courses so that he can stay up to date with the latest dental technology and materials. He’s always ready to help his Burleson patients take better care of their smiles. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Oza at Marvel Dental, visit his website or call (817) 933-3883.