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.
