With the arrival of the holiday season, many Americans intend to travel to visit family or take a vacation. Packing for your trip requires careful planning, and you should use this same approach when considering your oral hygiene.
While you may unwind as you travel, you should not relax your oral hygiene practices because plaque will not take a vacation. Dr. Dominic Roppa, a dentist practicing in Rockledge, FL, provides oral hygiene tips for patients who are planning to travel.
Keep Oral Hygiene Supplies Handy
A toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss may be high on your packing list as you prepare for an upcoming vacation. However, it can be difficult to stick to your usual brushing and flossing schedule as you travel. Sometimes, you might not have easy access to luggage, which could be checked on a plane or stowed in a hotel room while you are on the go.
To make your oral hygiene routine simpler during your trip, it is a good idea to keep hygienic supplies on hand. Floss in your pocket or purse, for instance, can help you prevent dangerous plaque build-up with ease without compromising your vacation.
Plan Snack Options
You may have extravagant meals planned that center on the holidays or your vacation destination. However, you should account for snacking habits during your travels as well.
Careful planning can help you avoid sugary or acidic snacks that could harm your smile. Choosing fibrous, hard-textured snacks like carrot sticks or nuts can prevent dental damage and boost oral hygiene by getting rid of plaque build-up between your brushing regimens.
Drink Plenty of Water
Dehydration can make you feel ill, but it can also leave your teeth at risk of dental damage. Low levels of hydration create an environment that allows natural bacteria to spread easily across your teeth. This heightens your risk of oral infections, including periodontal disease.
You can lower the chances of harming your gums by drinking plenty of water during your trip. A glass of water can also rinse lingering food particles from your mouth and keep your teeth clean.
Learn More from Your Dentist in Rockledge, FL
Smile Viera offers treatment for bleeding gums and other dental concerns in patients of all ages. Dr. Roppa is a highly qualified dentist in Rockledge, FL who specializes in general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, including tooth replacement solutions. To schedule an appointment with our practice, contact us online or reach our office by phone at 321.614.3833.