Useful Tips For Keeping A Healthy Smile During Your Summer Vacation

Posted on

If you're planning to travel this summer, your focus is likely on the attractions you'll encounter along the way, as well as getting your hotels and flights booked in advance. Although your dental health might not be in the forefront of your mind, it's valuable to give a little consideration to how you'll keep your smile healthy – whether you're traveling for a long weekend or are spending a couple weeks away from home. It's easy to allow your oral hygiene to drop off, but being vigilant about adopting healthy habits will increase the chance that your next dental checkup is positive. Here are some ideas to implement.

Carry Your Toothbrush And Toothpaste In An Easy-To-Reach Location

You've stopped for some ice cream along your route or have been popping candies while you drive – and know that it would be a good idea to brush your teeth at the next rest stop. However, if you keep your oral care products zipped inside a toiletries kit and buried inside your suitcase, it's easy to talk yourself out of the hassle of retrieving them. Avoid this dilemma by either keeping a toothbrush and toothpaste in a zipper-top bag in your glove compartment or in an exterior zippered pocket of your suitcase. This will remind you that these items take only a second to retrieve and allow you to brush when necessary.

Keep Some Mouthwash Handy

When you don't have time to stop, a quick swig of some mouthwash can reduce the bacteria inside your mouth that have accumulated after a recent snack or meal and may be starting to cause harm to your teeth and gums. The added bonus is that the minty-fresh flavor of many mouthwash products can help you feel alert and awake, which is valuable if you're driving at night.

Ask For Products At Your Hotel's Front Desk

If you've made a packing oversight and have ended up without your toothbrush or some dental floss once you're ready for bed, don't just tell yourself that you'll visit a pharmacy the next day. Instead, zip down to the front desk of the hotel and ask about toiletries. Some hotels provide such easily forgettable items free of charge upon your request, while many sell them for a nominal fee in the hotel shop.

Make Brushing A Family Affair

Even if you're disciplined about brushing your teeth, your children might try to skip the activity if they're excited to visit the next attraction along your route. Avoid this problem by making time to brush together as a family. This approach means that everyone in your family can take a few minutes to get their mouths clean before you continue the traveling fun.

Click here to learn more about this topic or get more brushing tips.


Share