Dental Tips for Travelers

  

Vacation Time!  Whether you are on a vacation for a few days or months away out of the country; here are some dental tips for travelers to maintain good oral care:

Make Time for a dental checkup before travel

·       Thorough oral exam to take care any dental problems before the travel

·       Your dentist should check fillings, crowns or dentures in your mouth.  Air traps in the teeth can expand at extreme altitudes; it can cause pain, inflammation and even loose fillings, crowns or dentures

In case of emergency/emergency overseas

·       Make sure to have the dentist’s contact information handy or keep a business card in the wallet

·       If you are out of the country, get a dental referral/recommendation from the local consulate or U.S. embassy

Pack Dental supplies (toothbrush, toothpaste, floss)

·       Ventilate toothbrush-Store the toothbrush after use in a sealable plastic bag and keep it clean and out of contact with other things. As soon as you reach the destination, take the toothbrush out for air dry.

·       Toothpaste and floss-keep these supplies in the glove compartment, purses, containers, plastic bags, carry-on

·       Bring extra, portable/disposable supplies-go small, the more compact the oral hygiene items, the more likely you are to keep them handy

Eat healthy snacks

·       Cut up fruits & vegetables, baby carrots, celery sticks, sliced apples, string cheese, whole grain crackers, trail mix

·       Chew sugarless gum for 20 minutes after a meal can help prevent cavities.  It gets saliva flowing and washes away cavity-causing bacteria

·       Drink water

Brush with bottled water

·       If you are in a country that the water supply may be compromised, use bottled water to brush your teeth.  It reduces the risk of getting sick

·       Clean the toothbrush with bottled water.  It reduces the risk of getting sick

Stick to your routine

·       Brush your teeth 2x/day and floss daily

·       End of day with a thorough brushing and flossing. 

Dr. Anna Lee is a general & cosmetic dentist in Glendora, CA.  She has been taking care of adults and children’s dentistry for over 25 years.  Call our dental office for a thorough dental examination before leaving for your vacation.  If you and your family have any questions about dental care, please contact Dr. Anna Lee at 626-335-5114 or visit us at www.annaleedds.com.