Tips for Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene While Traveling

Traveling can disrupt our regular routines, including our oral hygiene habits. Dr. Brian Schowengerdt at Schowengerdt Family Dentistry in Lees Summit, MO, understands travelers’ challenges in maintaining dental health. Here are some practical tips for keeping your teeth and gums healthy on the go.

Compact and Travel-Friendly Dental Kit

Always pack a travel-sized dental kit. Include:

  • A small, soft-bristled toothbrush or a battery-operated one.
  • Miniature toothpaste tube.
  • Travel-sized dental floss or interdental cleaners.
  • A small bottle of mouthwash (optional).

Stick to Your Oral Hygiene Routine

It’s crucial to maintain your regular brushing and flossing routine:

  • Brush at least twice a day, especially after meals.
  • Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth.

Use Bottled Water If Necessary

In areas where tap water quality is questionable, use bottled water for brushing to avoid potential health risks.

Watch Your Diet

Travel often means trying new foods, which can be high in sugar. Balance this by choosing fruits, vegetables, and water over sugary snacks and acidic drinks.

Chewing Gum as a Quick Fix

Chewing sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva flow, helping to cleanse the mouth and freshen breath when brushing isn’t an option.

Handling Dental Emergencies While Traveling

Be prepared for dental emergencies:

  • Carry the contact information of your dentist.
  • Pack a small dental first aid kit with items like gauze, a small container with a lid, and over-the-counter pain relief medication.

Caring for Dental Work on the Road

If you have Dental Implants, Crowns & Bridges, or Invisalign, be extra mindful of your dental care and any specific instructions from your dentist.

Drinking Water Regularly

Regular hydration is not just essential for overall health; it plays a crucial role in maintaining oral hygiene as well. Drinking water regularly helps wash away food particles and residual sugars or acids from the teeth and gums, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Furthermore, water helps balance the pH levels in your mouth, preventing an overly acidic environment that can erode tooth enamel. For those in areas with fluoridated water, it provides an added benefit of strengthening tooth enamel. Thus, keeping a water bottle handy during travels and sipping on it throughout the day is an easy yet effective step toward preserving your oral health.

Avoid Using Your Teeth as Tools

Never use your teeth to cut tape, open packages, or for any purpose other than eating. This can prevent chips or breaks, especially important for those with Veneers & Laminates.

Regular Dental Check-Ups Are Key

Before embarking on a long trip, consider visiting Schowengerdt Family Dentistry for a routine check-up. This can help identify and address any potential issues beforehand.

Schedule a Check-Up Before Your Next Trip

Maintaining oral hygiene while traveling is crucial for your overall health and can prevent dental problems. Simple steps like packing the right tools and being mindful of your routine can make a significant difference.

Planning a trip? Visit Dr. Brian Schowengerdt at Schowengerdt Family Dentistry in Lees Summit, MO, for a pre-travel check-up. Call 816-524-3535 to ensure your oral health is in top shape before you hit the road.

Sources

  1. American Dental Association: Travel Tips for Oral Health
  2. Journal of Travel Medicine: Oral Health for Travelers
  3. International Dental Journal: Oral Health and Travel