Summer is just around the corner which means school is out and traveling for many families. It is easy to overlook dental hygiene when on the road and forget to pack the essentials to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Below you will find some essentials to pack to ensure you keep up your dental hygiene while having fun on the road.
Dental Hygiene Essentials To Pack
-New Toothbrush. Start fresh and bring a new toothbrush on your trip. Then simply throw it out at the end of the vacation.
-Toothbrush Holder. This is a simple and cheap way to maintain a sanitary environment for your toothbrush.
-Travel Sized Mouthwash and Toothpaste. Not only will these follow the newer TSA regulations for air travel, they will make it easier to pack as well.
-Sugar Free Gum (preferably one with Xylitol). Being on the road it is not always easy to brush after meals or snacks. Keeping gum with you will allow you to freshen your breath and keep your mouth as clean as possible.
-Pain Medication. This can include Motrin or Aleve. Nice to have in case of a dental emergency while on vacation.
-Wax. Another good item to have in case of a dental emergency. If you accidentally chip a tooth, the wax can be used to cover the jagged edge of the tooth.
-Floss. Do not forget to floss at least once per day.
-Package of Colgate Wisps. This handy dental hygiene tool acts as toothbrush as well as a toothpick. These can help remove foreign objects lodged between your teeth.
-Plastic sandwich or freezer bag. Ever open your suitcase to find a tube of toothpaste or mouthwas exploded all over your clothes? It’s not a pleasant surprise. This can be prevented by putting your dental hygiene products in a sealed plastic bag.
-Electric Toothbrush/Charger. If you use an electric toothbrush make sure to pack the entire kit including the charger so you do not run out of juice while traveling.
-Waterpik Flosser Travel Size. The waterpik is an excellent adjunct to any dental hygiene program. If this is a product you use at home, then you would not want to leave without it.
Dental Hygiene Tips While Traveling
-Do not forget to brush after every meal. If you are unable to brush immediately, rinse with water after every meal.
-Limit snacking.
-Carry sugar free gum with xylitol to chew if you are unable to brush.
-Always brush and floss before bed.
Dental Hygiene Conclusion
Maintaining dental hygiene on the road can be quite challenging. Carrying your routine on the road is essential to stave off any dental issues down the road.
© 2015, Marielaina Perrone DDS. All rights reserved. Henderson Cosmetic Dentist
Comments
Being a dental hygienist, I would like to suggest that most of the foods we enjoy chewing on or drinking when travelling can also stain our teeth terribly and take that bright smile away! Chocolate, coffee, berries, wine and some habits like smoking can really stain your teeth. The best way to keep a clean mouth and almost clean teeth without brush or flossing is by rinsing your mouth with clean water every time you chew on something. Whether your summer plans involve travel or not, good oral hygiene is an important part of staying healthy this summer.