Caring For Your Oral Health When Traveling
At Muse Dental Studio, we have been loving hearing about all your summer plans. We know many of our patients have trips and vacations planned before the return of the school year. Continuing to care for your oral health while on your travels is extremely important. It can be tempting to relax your oral hygiene routine, but we do not recommend that. Not cleaning your teeth properly, even a few times, can lead to oral health complications. Here are some helpful tips to remember when you travel:
Pack All Dental Supplies
It is extremely important that you pack all your dental supplies, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss, and mouthwash. Depending on your travel destination, it can be difficult to find a location and get to that location to purchase these items. It is also extremely important to pack any supplies or materials that you use for treatments, such as clear aligners, supplies for orthodontic hardware, mouth guards, and oral appliances. Not continuing on your treatment plan can lead to serious setbacks and complications upon your return.
Be Mindful of Water
Depending on your travel destination, there may be recommendations not to drink the tap water. If that is the case, be sure you always use bottled water for drinking as well as brushing your teeth, and rinsing your mouth and toothbrush. It doesn’t take much contaminated water to cause serious problems with your overall health. Bacteria can also linger on your toothbrush if you are not using bottled water.
Limit Sugar Consumption
Even though you want to have an amazing time during your travels, it is important to continue to consume sugary foods and beverages in moderation, especially if you are not going to be able to brush your teeth immediately after eating and drinking. Continue to drink plenty of water to increase saliva production and wash away some of the lingering food and bacteria.
If you are located in Houston, TX or the surrounding area and need an oral hygiene examination and cleaning, we would love to hear from you. Be sure to contact our office to schedule an appointment for a cleaning or any dental treatment we may have recommended.