The summer season is when people embark on exciting adventures, indulge in delicious culinary experiences, and make cherished memories with family and friends. It’s a period of relaxation, embracing the warmth of the sun, and savouring the joyous moments. The goal is to return home with enchanting stories of breathtaking beaches and mouthwatering meals.
Whether you’re exploring the wilderness or treating yourself to a luxurious getaway at a 5-star resort, it’s vital to prioritize your oral health throughout your vacation if you don’t want it cut short by a dental emergency.
So, how do you take care of your teeth in the summer? Here are some essential oral health tips for travelling during your summer vacation.
- Visit Your Dentist Before Leaving
To ensure a hassle-free vacation without any dental emergencies, visit your dentist before embarking on your trip. Scheduling a pre-trip checkup allows your dentist to detect and treat any potential issues in advance, reducing the chances of unexpected dental complications that could require seeking treatment from unfamiliar dentists in foreign locations. By prioritizing a dental visit before your vacation, you can safeguard against oral pain and enjoy your holiday with peace of mind.
- Always Carry the Essentials
Maintaining oral hygiene while on summer break is important, so don’t forget to pack the essentials before your trip. Include a soft-bristled toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and a travel-sized mouthwash (100 ml or less) if you’re carrying a carry-on bag. Mouthwash is often overlooked but is helpful for quick rinses after meals to eliminate residues and minimize the risk of developing cavities while on vacation. Avoid leaving these items behind on the bathroom counter.
- Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration directly contributes to the well-being of your teeth. When swimming or consuming alcohol, you can get dehydrated, leading to reduced saliva production. A dry mouth creates an environment conducive to bacterial growth since there is less saliva to wash away plaque. By maintaining hydration, you not only prevent tooth decay but also support your overall health.
- Store Your Toothbrush Properly
Another summer dental care tip is to properly store your toothbrush to avoid bacterial contamination. Suitcases create a damp environment promoting bacterial growth, which can transfer to your toothbrush. Using a bacteria-infested toothbrush transfers these germs into your mouth, posing a risk to your oral health.
To prevent this, you only need to use a closed container for toothbrush storage and aim to keep it as dry as possible. Upon reaching your destination, allow it to air dry in an upright position. By taking these simple precautions, you can ensure that your toothbrush remains clean and free from harmful bacteria.
- Avoid Eating and Drinking Too Much Sugar
One of the many summer vacation oral hygiene practices to maintain optimal oral health during your vacation is to limit your sugar consumption. Sugary foods and beverages promote bacterial growth, leading to plaque buildup, cavities, and tooth decay. Brush and floss your teeth twice daily, and drink plenty of water, especially after indulging in sweet treats, to wash away sugars and protect your teeth. Instead of sugary snacks, opt for local fruits that are high in fibre and free from processed sugars. These fruits are a healthier alternative and contribute to better dental hygiene. Reducing sugar intake and prioritizing oral care can safeguard your teeth while enjoying your vacation.
- Be extra careful when eating food that is tough and/or hard
Exploring the local cuisine and embracing new flavours is an exhilarating part of any vacation. However, your culinary adventure can abruptly turn painful if you disregard the importance of mindful eating.
Be cautious when eating hard foods. These can chip or crack your teeth. When trying new dishes, chew slowly and be mindful of unexpected hardness. Avoid chewing on ice, even in hot weather, as it can easily chip your teeth. Skip chewing the ice that comes with beverages and opt for ice-free, refreshing drinks as a safer alternative to stay cool.
- Eat healthy snacks
While snacking is a common indulgence during vacations, it often involves unhealthy choices like cookies, chips, or crackers. Although these treats may be delicious, they can adversely affect your dental health. To counterbalance this, it’s essential to make a conscious effort to pack healthy snacks for your journey. Opt for raw vegetables, fruits, nuts, and cheese as nutritious alternatives. These options not only provide essential vitamins and minerals but also help promote good oral health. By choosing healthier snacks, you can satisfy your cravings while ensuring the well-being of your teeth during your vacation.
- Search for dentists in the area
While you may not expect to encounter a dental emergency while on vacation, it’s crucial to be prepared in case one does occur. Take the time to research dental offices near your vacation destination and make sure they are equipped to handle urgent dental needs. By familiarizing yourself with these facilities in advance, you can have peace of mind knowing where to turn if a dental emergency arises, allowing you to minimize the disruption to your vacation and address any dental issues promptly and effectively.
Practicing proper oral care during your summer vacation is essential for maintaining a healthy and worry-free smile. By following these oral care tips for summer vacation, you can protect your teeth, prevent dental emergencies, and enjoy your vacation to the fullest with a radiant and confident smile. Lambton Family Dental has a team of professional Sarnia dentists that offers a full range of dental services for the whole family. Make an appointment now at (519) 344-5747!