During the summer, some families take road trips; others hop on a plane to have new experiences. Most spend at least a little bit of time getting away from life, but unfortunately, bacteria in your mouth never take a break. Even if you relax by the beach or pool, they continue trying to destroy your smile! Whether you’re flying across the world, driving to family, or anything in between, these tips can keep your oral health on track during your summer vacation.
Tip #1: Bring Your Dental Hygiene Supplies
Although forgetting to pack something happens to many travelers, on any overnight trip, you must have what you need to brush and floss your teeth before you go to bed and in the morning. Skipping these essential habits for even one day invites plaque and bacteria to settle in and start to harm your oral health.
If you struggle with packing, try making a list of things you need to bring and double check your suitcase before you depart. Should you forget your toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss, buy these supplies once you reach your destination.
Tip #2: Maintain a Somewhat Regular Schedule
Vacations often come with new, different experiences, which can throw off your normal routine. In other words, your bedtime and morning rituals may not be perfect. However, some elements of your daily schedule need to remain the same, especially your oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth for two minutes both after you wake up and before you sleep as well as flossing once a day will keep decay from developing on your teeth and preserve your smile.
Tip #3: Make Smart Food and Drink Decisions
Exploring a different place and trying new foods will enrich your vacation and expose you to wonderful experiences, but if you’re not careful, you can get carried away and harm your smile. Sugary and acidic food and drinks, in particular, weaken your teeth and make them more susceptible to decay.
While you certainly should enjoy your vacation and have an exciting diet, make sure you don’t abandon healthy choices altogether. Sip water throughout the day to stay hydrated and keep your smile-protecting saliva flowing.
Tip #4: Visit Your Dentist Before Taking Off
Just as booking your flight or hotel takes some planning ahead of time, so does making sure your smile stays healthy during and after your travels. Before you leave, schedule your routine dental hygiene and checkup appointment. Your dentist may discover a developing issue and can resolve it before your trip, reducing the risk of tooth pain or other problems ruining your trip.
After working so hard, you deserve to have an enjoyable, relaxing summer vacation, but don’t stop taking care of your mouth, or bacteria will cause issues you’ll have to deal with after you get back. By following these tips, you can have a marvelous time away and hold onto your unique memories and brilliant smile long after the vacation ends.
About the Practice
Beach Dental provides oral health services ranging from simple routine preventive care to advanced tooth replacement with dental implants, straightening teeth with Invisalign, and perfecting your smile with cosmetic treatments. Dr. Jason Parli and Dr. Alexis Gersten have practiced for more than 20 years and have treated patients from the East Quogue, East Moriches, Westhampton, Manorville, and Westhampton Beach areas. Do you need to schedule an appointment before your summer vacation? Call us at 631-325-0731 or go online to book a visit!