Whether you’ve had the opportunity to travel a lot this year or you’re taking your first trip this summer, the last thing you want is for a dental injury to get in the way. The good news is that there are several proactive measures you can take while you’re gone to help prevent that from happening! So, keep reading to learn five important oral health tips for your summer vacation.
Tip #1: Chew on Sugar-Free Gum Between Meals
Ideally, you would have the time to brush and floss between each meal. However, that’s not always possible on vacation, especially if you have a full itinerary every day. If that’s the case for you, then chew on a piece of sugar-free gum after each meal. Although it’s not a replacement for your toothbrush, it can help rinse away food particles by stimulating your saliva production.
Tip #2: Don’t Forget Your Mouthguard!
Do you grind your teeth at night? Are you planning on participating in a summer sport, like beach volleyball, during your trip? If so, it’s of the utmost importance that you don’t forget your mouthguard while packing everything you need.
Tip #3: Keep Your Consumption of Added Sugar to a Minimum
On vacation, you may be planning on indulging in whatever your heart desires. Naturally, you don’t have to completely eliminate anything from your diet for the sake of your oral health. With that said, it is important not to consume foods and drinks with added sugar in excess. Otherwise, you could develop a cavity or two on vacation.
Tip #4: Exercise Caution with Crunchy and Hard Foods
Whether you’re at home or traveling abroad, you should chew crunchy and hard foods carefully. If you aren’t cautious, you could wind up with a chipped, cracked, or fractured tooth. It goes without saying that handling a dental emergency when you’re away from home can result in some additional stress, so it’s worth being proactive.
Tip #5: Brush and Floss Consistently
One of the best parts of vacation is leaving your typical day-to-day routine behind. While you can leave some things at home, like your alarm clock, you need to bring (and use!) your toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash. That way, your teeth and gums aren’t vulnerable to decay and infection.
About the Doctor
Although Dr. Yelena Obholz was once terrified of going to the dentist, it was ultimately her own student-dentist that inspired her to pursue a career in dentistry! She chose to pursue her dental doctorate from the New York University College of Dentistry before completing a residency at Woodhull Hospital. Since then, she has undergone advanced training with world-renowned institutions, like the Las Vegas Institute, and maintained active memberships with professional organizations, such as the American Dental Association. If you are in the North Bethesda area and would like to schedule an appointment or ask her a question about your oral health, visit her website or call (301) 658-7647.