Summer vacations are a time to relax, explore new destinations and create lasting memories. While enjoying your break, it’s essential not to neglect your oral hygiene routine. Ignoring dental care during vacations can potentially lead to oral health issues, which can put a damper on your well-deserved time off. To help you protect your smile while you are away, we have compiled a list of useful reminders that can keep your smile on track!

Pack the Essentials

Before you embark on your summer adventure, ensure you pack all your oral hygiene essentials. Remember to bring a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and mouthwash. You can opt for travel-sized products or invest in a travel toothbrush with a protective case for convenience and cleanliness. Either way, your oral hygiene pack is a traveling essential! Bonus: your smile will look its best in person and pictures!

Stick to Your Routine

While vacations are a time to break away from your daily routine, it’s important to maintain consistency with your oral hygiene habits. You’ll still want to brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each session. Ensure you brush all surfaces of your teeth (and don’t forget your tongue)! Also, don’t skip flossing, as it actively clears out plaque and stray bits of food lingering between your pearly whites.

Stay Hydrated

Hot summer temperatures, coupled with increased physical activities during your travel excursions, may lead to dehydration. Remember, it’s essential to down lots of water to stay optimally hydrated. Plain water not only helps maintain overall health but actively promotes saliva production, which you need to neutralize harmful acids and protect your teeth against decay.

Limit Sugary Drinks and Snacks

You can still enjoy festive treats while you are away. It can help to rinse your mouth with water wherever you go to help wash away some of the sugar and acids. Then be sure to brush and floss when you can to keep tooth decay and cavities away.

Carry Sugar-Free Gum

Chewing sugar-free gum is a great way to maintain good oral hygiene during your vacation. It helps stimulate saliva production, which aids in neutralizing acids and washing away bits of oral debris. Look for gum with the ADA (American Dental Association) seal of approval for added assurance.

Be Mindful of Travel Food Choices

When dining out during your vacation, make conscious food choices that are beneficial for your oral health. Opt for dishes that are less likely to get stuck in between your teeth or leave a sticky residue. Avoid hard candies and chewy snacks that can damage your teeth or lead to dental work complications.

Research Local Dental Care Options

In case of any dental emergencies or unexpected oral health concerns during your vacation, you will want to be prepared. Research and note local dental clinics or emergency dental services available in the area you’re visiting. Having this information readily available can save you stress and time if the need arises.

Schedule a Pre-Vacation Dental Check-up

If you can, get your teeth checked and cleaned before your vacation. We can address any underlying oral health issues and ensure your teeth and gums are in good shape to travel. We can also provide personalized recommendations for maintaining oral hygiene while you are away.

Enjoy Your Vacation and Stay Committed

Follow these simple guidelines and enjoy your time away, exploring new places and creating life-changing memories. Your smile will thrive, and you will look your best, especially in all those photos you will bring home you’ll want to display and share! We welcome you to schedule your next visit with Dr. Leo Man to get your smile in its best shape. Please call our experienced dental team in Chino Hills, CA, at 909-590-2229 today!