As the holidays come into full swing, you may be finalizing various trips throughout. It’s a great time to see your distant family and friends on a special day. However, it’s important that you keep up with your oral health during your travels. It can be easy to let your dental hygiene slip, so here are four ways that you can make sure your smile is protected while you are away.
Pack a Dental Essentials Kit
Whether you are staying with someone you trust or are at a hotel, they may not have everything you need to take care of your grin. You should pack your own travel kit; that way, you have a compact pouch that will ensure you can remove harmful bacteria from your teeth. Here are some things it should include:
- A soft-bristle travel toothbrush
- Mini toothpaste and mouthwash
- Dental floss or floss picks
Keep Up with Your Oral Hygiene Routine
When you get to your destination, it may be easy to skip parts of your oral hygiene. You may be too tired from socializing or other events, but you should still take a couple of minutes to brush and floss. Doing them twice a day can get rid of plaque that can cause dental problems like gum disease or cavities. Not only can these be frustrating to deal with, but they can even put a damper on this time of year.
Limit How Many Sweets You Have
The holidays are a time when many people indulge in their seasonal favorites. You should be able to enjoy some sweets as well, but make sure you keep them in moderation. Doing this will help lower your risk of decay, as these treats are often full of sugars. These particles feed the bacteria in your mouth, producing an acid that erodes your enamel.
Visit Your Dentist Beforehand
Last but not least, you should give your dentist a visit before you head out! Dental checkups and cleanings are great ways to help you prevent a wide range of oral health issues. They are trained to watch for the early signs of them and give you easy treatments to fix them. This will also lower your risk of a dental emergency while you’re out of town! That way, all you have to do during the holidays is enjoy a break with your loved ones around you.
About the Author
At CityLine Dental Center, you benefit from the skilled leadership of Dr. Melody Stampe and Dr. Tamara Gater. We are happy to help the Richardson community get the best smiles they love with a wide range of treatments, such as preventive care. By being proactive about your oral health, we can help you avoid oral health issues for a stronger smile. If you want to get a checkup before you leave for the holidays, schedule an appointment or call our office at (972) 231-9499.