Just because you’re off-duty from work doesn’t mean you’re off-duty from brushing your teeth. While summer is a great time to take that cruise or hit the pool at the resort, oral hygiene remains just as important as ever. Taking care of your teeth will keep them healthy for any voyage. Read on for five tips that are certain to help you keep your smile in top shape this summer vacation.
Pack your Gear
If you’re hitting the road, be sure to pack your standard oral hygiene kit: toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash. Brushing your teeth with campfire ash and a twig doesn’t cut it.
Consult a Specialist
Having a dental appointment before you go can ensure you have a great time. The dentist can detect and correct impending crises before they can fully develop. You might even want to notify a dentist at your vacation destination that you’re coming and give him your normal provider’s contact information in case they need to exchange records.
Don’t Mess with Success
There is no vacation from your standard dental routine. Now that you’ve packed your hygiene kit, be sure to use it as you always have. Brush twice and floss once daily before hitting the whole thing with antibacterial mouthwash. You might even want to pack some healthy snacks for the road.
Mind What You Eat
When you get out of town, you want to sample the native cuisine. All things are good in moderation, but you should remain especially aware of your sugar consumption. Swap out the sugary drinks for water, or use a straw to keep them away from your teeth. Wash away excess sugar by drinking water after eating sweets.
Skip the Soda: Try Drinking Tea
Tea is the second most consumed beverage on Earth, and for good reason. It’s not only a pleasant potable: it also contains compounds that inhibit gum disease and tooth decay by suppressing bacteria. It also doesn’t hurt that tea is cheap and comes in many varieties.
These five tips can help maximize your vacation enjoyment by averting some sharp dental discomfort. By taking care of your teeth, you aren’t just setting yourself up for a lifetime of good health. You’re also getting ready to look great in selfies.
About the Author
Dr. Jennifer Pham earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine at Temple University School of Dentistry in 2010. She has been practicing in Northern Virginia for the past decade, leading her team at Downtown Family Dental of Leesburg to serve patients with skill and compassion. She is a member of the American Dental Association, the Virginia Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, the Greater Loudoun Dental Study Club, and the Seattle Study Club. If you’re curious about more ways for better oral health on vacation, contact her online or at (703) 666-3867.