As the weather starts to inch its way colder, you don’t need us to tell you that fall and winter are on their way. Fall and winter mark some of the busiest seasons with all of the shopping, parties and vacations jam-packed on the calendar. Unfortunately, these next couple months get so busy that people feel the need to take shortcuts when it comes to oral health maintenance. If you are traveling during the holiday season but want to make sure your oral hygiene stays at its best, try following these guidelines:
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Do not go traveling if you have a toothache
If you suspect you have any lurking problems in your mouth, don’t forget to schedule an appointment long before you leave on your jet plane. This way, you do not end up with a tooth emergency while out of town. Although if it does slip your mind or you just cannot find the time to make it to your appointment, research local emergency dental clinics in your vacation destination anyway. Better to be safe than sorry.
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Travel-sized oral kits are your best friend
Keeping a travel toothbrush, floss and toothpaste on hand in addition to trial sizes of your favorite toiletries reduces your packing time, and not just during the holidays. They can be found at almost any drug store and are super convenient. The size and the convenience allows you to make sure to keep up with your oral hygiene even though you are on vacation. This way, you do not come back from vacation with some tooth aching surprises.
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You can never have enough probiotics
There are a never ending supply of germs and diseases at airports, train stations, buses, or any other place you might encounter during your vacations. Many studies have revealed that probiotics are good all around- from your gut to your teeth to your immune system.
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Replace your travel toothbrushes often
Most dentists typically recommend that you replace your old toothbrush with a new one every two to three months. However, this fact often changes if you are traveling a lot. This is because when you travel, your travel toothbrush is indefinitely exposed to much more bacteria than the one that sits on your bathroom counter at home. Toss your travel brush in the trash when you return home and swap it for a fresh brush, no matter if it’s hit the two to three month mark or not.
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Sugar-free gum can actually be your friend
Bringing sugar-free gum with you on your travels can have many surprising benefits. Sugar free gum tastes good, can keep your breathe smelling nice and fresh, and can also help remove food that is stuck in your teeth.
Before the holiday season comes into effect, don’t forget to visit your dentist. They can help you with whatever oral hygiene questions you may have. At your checkup, your dentist can get your teeth prepared for the holiday season. Preparation can be the key to healthy oral hygiene and function.
To maintain your teeth healthy visit your trusted Livermore Hills Dentist at least twice a year to get an exam and checkup. Prevent your teeth from being ruined by maintaining your dental hygiene and eating adequate foods to support your dental health.