Five Oral Health Tips for Travel

When you get hit with wanderlust, don’t let your oral health get lost by the wayside. Vacation is the perfect time to let go of responsibilities and enjoy a little fun, but don’t get so sidetracked that you forget to take care of your smile. These tips from A Better Smile Dentistry will help keep your teeth healthy and pearly white while you’re globetrotting.

Don’t miss an appointment

If you fly often or have an epic scuba diving trip planned in a few months, come see us before you leave town. No one wants to have a dental emergency far away from home with a strange dentist. If you’ve recently had restorative work, like fillings, crowns, or implants placed, ask us to check your mouth before you hop on the plane or dive deep.  Trapped air can expand or contract at extreme altitudes and cause intense pain, which is known as barodontalgia.

Keep extras on hand

Stockpile a few extra travel toothbrush/toothpaste combination kits in places you might need them. Stash one in your glove box, one in your desk at work or locker at school. Toss in a travel size mouthwash as well so you can always have a clean mouth if you get stuck in traffic or need a quick clean-up after lunch.

Store them upright

In theory, a travel case or pouch for your toothbrush seems like a good idea. It can be fine when used to protect it from rolling around in your makeup bag or Dopp kit. The problem is that the moist, enclosed environment can let bacteria grow. Make use of those plastic cups at the hotel and store it upright until its dry and time to take home.

Take it through security

Pack a toothbrush and travel-size toothpaste into your carry-on bag in a quart-size TSA-approved zip-lock plastic bag. If your luggage gets lost or you have a long layover, you’ll be able to freshen up before stepping off the plane.

Don’t take a vacation from hygiene

No matter what else happens, make sure you still brush and floss your teeth while you’re on a trip. You’re more likely to indulge in sugary foods and carbohydrate-rich snacks that will require you to stay on top of your game.