Whether your planning a relaxing or adventurous vacation your well-being is important while on holidays, but it’s easy to overlook some of your daily routines when you’re busy or distracted.
Your oral care never gets time off, and although a dental emergency can occur unexpectedly, a little preplanning can give you some peace of mind when travelling.
We have some easy tips on how to look after your dental well being during your travels.
Before you Travel
Regular 6 month dental check up visits help you to keep your teeth and gums healthy and allow you to address any oral health issues before they become bigger, more complicated problems.
There are pros and cons to starting any complicated dental treatment before you travel. Ensure you discuss any dental concerns with your dentist so that you can be prepared for any uncertainties. Most dental problems should be cleared up right away before they become emergencies, while many elective procedures can be postponed until your return. Understand however, that you should take care of problematic matters well ahead of time to prevent any post treatment issues that can possibly delay your vacation.
What to Pack
Your routine oral care supplies – toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, floss.
A clean, ventilated toothbrush container.
Sugarless gum for when you may not be able to brush your teeth immediately after a meal. It helps to neutralize acids and increase saliva flow to wash away food debris.
If you are bringing your electric toothbrush ensure that it is compatible with the power outlets at your destination or bring the correct adaptive device.
Your night guard if you wear one.
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen.
Denture adhesive and dental wax for small emergencies which are sold at most pharmacies
Emergency Treatment
Be prepared and plan ahead in case of a dental emergency!
An internet search at home will help you find the name, telephone number, office hours and emergency contact of local dental clinics where you will be vacationing just in case the need arises. Make sure you receive an itemized receipt before you leave their clinic.
Denture adhesive can be used to temporarily recement a loosened crown. Dental wax can be placed over sharp tooth edges if you accidently chip or break a tooth.
If you do require immediate attention, perhaps the attending dentist can offer a sufficient, temporary solution until you get home.
What to Avoid
Do not use your teeth as tools to open packages, remove tags, uncap bottles, cracking open nuts, etc.
Avoid using tap water to brush your teeth in countries where the quality of local water is questionable. Use bottled water or mouthwash to rinse your teeth and clean your toothbrush.
Watch what you chew! Do not crunch on ice cubes. Avoid hard foods and candies. Be careful with bones, seeds, popcorn kernels and food that can easily get stuck between teeth. These are all practical suggestions, but they require your careful attention.
Layovers
Remember to prepare if you have a long layover at an airport or other travel stops. Keep a small oral care travel case with you at all times.
We hope that with a little forethought your time spent away from the hustle and bustle of your daily routines will be full of happy smiles and great memories.
Safe travels
