Oral Hygiene Habits That Can Save Your Smile!

This time of year is full of happy trips, time with family and long vacations. But traveling can take its toll on your smile. You may have the best of intentions but find when you are on the road, you forget to brush, eat unhealthy food that sticks to your teeth and enjoy beverages that are high in sugar. But these tips can help you keep your smile healthy, during road trips and for a lifetime.

Maintain oral care routine

·      brush 2x per day, floss daily, use mouthwash

·      if unable to brush, rinse the mouth with water to help get rid of food from the mouth

·      take brushing breaks; take a moment to brush the teeth when stopping for bathroom breaks

·      if unable to keep up with brushing 2x/day, make sure to do a good job brushing and flossing at the end of the day

Foods to Avoid on the Road

·      eating sugary foods, sodas/sweet fruit juice

·      chewing ice, hard candy (avoid dental emergency)

Dr. Lee recommends people to schedule an appointment for a dental checkup and a cleaning before the trip.  The best way to start out the vacation is with a clean and healthy mouth.  Call Dr. Anna Lee for a dental checkup at 626-335-5114 or email at drannalee1@gmail.com

Keeping Up With Your Oral Hygiene Habits on the Road

Some people take time off with their family to travel during the summer months. Others delay their vacation time to the fall, winter or spring.  Whether it is just a short weekend road trip or a 2-week long camping trip, it can be challenging to have good oral hygiene while traveling on the road.  However, with some advance planning and following some of the oral health care tips, good oral health is achievable.

Here are some oral health care tips:

1.     Plan ahead and pack properly

·      pack travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash

·      toothbrush holder contains holes for ventilation and water drainage to prevent bacterial growth

·      disposable toothbrushes (Colgate Wisp), toothpaste & floss are convenient

·      bring extra supplies of  toothbrushes, toothpastes, mouthwashes, floss

2.     Eat Healthy Snacks

·      sliced fruits, raw vegetables (baby carrots), string cheese, granola bars, nuts, whole grain crackers

·      stay hydrated; drink water

·      chew sugarless gum with xylitol-increase saliva flow to remove food particles from the mouth

·      drink unsweetened green and black tea

Practicing great oral hygiene can ensure you have a smile that lasts a lifetime. For more information on dental tips, contact Dr. Anna Lee and her team today!