A vacation may mean that you get to throw your routine behind you, sleep in, and eat more carbs than you normally would, but it doesn't mean that you get to throw everything out the window; especially your oral health. To make sure that you don't come back from vacation with a mouth full of cavities, this article will take a closer look at a few ways that you can keep your mouth happy while you're traveling.
Bring Sugar-Free Gum
Studies have shown that chewing sugar-free gum on a regular basis isn't just good for your mouth but it can save your family a lot of money on dental costs each year (especially if you have children). While you're out of town, try encouraging yourself, your significant other, and your kids to chew sugar-free gum after meals.
Chewing gum is a good alternative to brushing (until you get to your hotel) because it increases your mouths natural production of saliva. When your mouth has a lot of saliva it will naturally clean your teeth to get rid of plaque, germs, and bacteria. Plus, sugar-free gum will also help you combat bad breath after you've had a long day of traveling.
Stick to Your Normal Routine
Kids thrive off of having a routine. Just because you're traveling, that doesn't mean that all routines have to go out the window. In addition to keeping their bedtime routine, also make sure that you and your family stick to your oral health routine.
For instance, if you always have your kids brush after breakfast and right before bed, make sure that you have them do the same thing while you're out of town. If you aren't going back to your hotel after breakfast, pack your kids toothbrushes and toothpaste with you and have them brush in the public restroom.
Pack a Dental Kit
Try packing an individual dental kit for everyone in your family. Each kit should contain a toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss (or dental flossers). When your family has everything they need to brush and floss their teeth, it won't leave any room for excuses (even when you are on vacation). Plus, when you have everything organized in one neat spot, it can make getting the job done a whole lot easier.
If you want to make it fun for your kids, have them pick out a new toothbrush and toothpaste before you head out of town. Having something new to use when you get to your destination can be fun and exciting for them.
Eat Healthy Snacks
Although it is fun to eat a lot of treats while you're traveling, encourage your family to eat healthy snacks. For instance, snacks like strawberries and broccoli aren't just good for you but they naturally work to scrub your teeth and get rid of plaque buildup in the process. Every time your kid bites into one of these foods, it’s like they are taking a small tooth brushing break.
Use Bottled Water
If you are traveling internationally and you aren't' sure how clean their water is, then use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Purified, bottled water will help keep your mouth healthy, and it will help you avoid getting sick either. The last thing you want to do is get sick off of water and end up in bed for the rest of your vacation.
Taking good care of your teeth while on summer vacation will help you avoid cavities. When you come back into town, schedule your family’s next cleaning or regular dental checkup with us at Treasured Smiles Dentistry.