Whether you are planning to travel for business or for pleasure, breaking free from the daily grind is not only relaxing, but it is also the time when you at risk of ignoring your important habits. It is important to remember that traveling is not a valid reason to let go to let your healthy habits go on vacation as well, including taking care of your oral health. The following tips will help maintain good oral health while traveling.
Packing for Good Oral Health
When packing your bags, remember to pack an oral hygiene kit to keep in your purse or carry-on. Whether you are traveling by car or plane, having easy access to oral hygiene items will make it easier to take care of your teeth, mouth and gums. Travel sized toothpaste, a toothbrush and floss should provide sufficient care until you get to your destination.
Have a Check-up
Call your dentist and tell them you are going to be traveling and if you almost due for a check-up, go ahead and schedule an appointment for an examination. This will ensure that if you have any problems, they will be resolved before you leave. For example, if you have cavity, getting a filling will prevent the cavity from worsening while you are traveling.
Watch Your Diet
While traveling it is common to break your habit of eating healthy, well-balanced meals, especially when you are staying in a hotel that does not have access to a kitchen. Eating a lot of unhealthy foods, such as sugary snacks, can increase the bacteria in your mouth, which may ultimately lead to cavities and other injuries to your teeth and gums. Instead of eating convenience foods and snacks, consider shopping at a local market for fresh fruits to snack on while in the hotel and while eating out, opt for baked meats and a fresh salad.
Use Mouth Rinse
For the times when you cannot complete your full oral care routine, rinsing your mouth with a quality mouth rinse will help to remove food particles from your teeth and reduce the risk of cavities. Rinsing should not be substituted for brushing and flossing, so make sure to complete your routine oral care as soon as you get a chance.
Chew Gum
Chewing sugar-free gum between meals is not only a great way to reduce your cravings for unhealthy snacks, but chewing sugar-free gum will also help to remove food particles from your teeth. Make sure to only chew gum that is sugar-free and it is best to replace the gum you are chewing with a fresh piece every couple of hours.
While traveling it is important to drink plenty of water, especially if you are in a different climate than you used to. When you are traveling out of the country, it is best to drink bottled water. This will not only reduce the risk of possible contaminated water, but if the water is contaminated, it may cause staining on your teeth.
To learn more information about how you can protect your teeth and gums while traveling or to schedule an appointment, contact Lynne A. March DDS.
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