It is that time of year when we are ready to go on vacation and want to venture out beyond the comforts of our homes.  Often this time means relaxing, sleeping, and going out exploring.  Unfortunately, our teeth can be overlooked while we are traveling.  Hopefully, in this article, you will learn travel tips for your teeth to stay healthier.

Pack a Toothbrush and Toothpaste

When we are packing we tend to focus on the more important items like clothing, itinerary, sunscreen, and other items.  This will often lead to your Toothbrush and Toothpaste being overlooked.  Don’t just throw your toothbrush in your luggage.  Put your toothbrush and paste in storage containers.  It could be as simple, as a ziplock bag.  Just remember to have your toothbrush thoroughly dry prior to placing it in the storage container.  Also, do not put it with someone else’s toothbrush.  That can cause germs and bacteria from one brush to be shared with the other(s).  Electric Toothbrush – Make sure that you bring your charging station for your electric toothbrush and that you don’t leave it behind.  Currently, it appears you can bring your electric toothbrush on flights.  For more information please click here to visit the tsa.gov website.

Storing your Toothbrush Properly Matters

When you arrive at your destination make sure you unpack your toothbrush with your clothes.  Your toothbrush needs air to breathe.  A sealed tight container will not allow ventilation and can trap moisture.  This can lead to bacteria growth.  Leave your toothbrush out because it needs to stay dry.  Place your toothbrush a safe distance away from the toilet. You don’t want the contaminants coming from the toilet onto your brush.  Yuck!

Travel Small

The more compact your oral hygiene items, the more likely you are to keep them handy and use them. Opt for foldable toothbrushes, mini toothpaste, and small bottles of mouthwash. If you’ll be on a long flight, keep these in your purse so you can take care of business mid-flight.  This is one of the easiest travel tips for your teeth and dental care.

Chewing Gum

Did you know chewing sugar-free gum after eating neutralizes acids, limiting the growth of cavity-causing bacteria?  The increase of saliva flow in your mouth from chewing sugar-free gum also helps wash away extra debris, which keeps your mouth fresher and cleaner.

Pack an Extra Toothbrush

If you are expecting to use a toothbrush that a hotel is going to supply, please keep in mind that it is probably not going to be optimal for your brushing needs.  Most hotel toothbrushes are too firm for your gums.

Stick to Routine

It doesn’t matter if you are on vacation or at home, being on a routine schedule for your dental hygiene is important.  If you take a vacation from good oral care habits, then you might not be able to easily pick them back up when you return back from your vacation. 

We have provided you with a handful of travel tips for your teeth.  Regular Checkups at Smiles of Round Lake can keep you from having potential dental issues.  It only takes one quick phone call to get you scheduled for your next visit. Please call Smiles of Round Lake if you or someone you know has any dental questions.  Our friendly staff can be reached by email at [email protected] or by phone at 847-546-1542.