It seems like summertime travel is more popular than ever. Are you among the millions of people who plan to get away from it all this summer? Whether you intend to relax on the beach or rough it in the wilderness, you should spare a moment to think about the well-being of your teeth and gums before you take off. How can you maintain a healthy smile during summer vacation? This blog post provides five practical tips.
Visit Your Dentist
Has it been more than six months since your last dental exam and cleaning? If so, you should book an appointment before your vacation. Your dental team will check for any oral health issues that might develop into a serious problem down the road. Hopefully, you will have time to address them prior to your departure date.
Pack the Essentials
It can be all too easy to forget to pack small but important items when you are going on vacation. For example, some people leave their toothbrush and toothpaste out of their suitcase. Be sure to pack all of your oral hygiene supplies. In fact, it might be a good idea to buy a separate oral hygiene kit for your suitcase so you can pack it well before you leave for your trip.
Drink Plenty of Water
A vacation allows you to take a break from your normal routine, and that is a good thing. However, it might also mean that you forget to keep up with your water intake. Try to keep a water bottle with you at all times and sip on it throughout the day. Staying well-hydrated can prevent dry mouth and reduce your risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
Minimize Snacking
Food seems to be a highlight of most vacations. It can be tempting to snack all day long. However, overly frequent eating can weaken your tooth enamel. It would be best to consume the majority of your calories at your three main meals.
Know What to Do in an Emergency
It is unlikely that you will experience a dental emergency during your vacation. If something does happen, though, you should know how to find adequate care. If you are in a well-developed country, it should be easy to use a search engine to find a local dental practice. In less-developed lands, though, you might need to rely on your travel insurance or hotel concierge for advice on where to go for high-quality treatment.
Your summer vacation should be a happy, exciting time. Take steps to protect your smile so you can fully enjoy your getaway.
Meet the Practice
The experts at Family Dental Practice of Newington offer preventive, restorative, and emergency oral health services in a welcoming environment. If it is time for your pre-vacation checkup or you have questions about how to care for your smile, we invite you to contact our team at 860-856-6201.