Whether you’re jetting off on holiday, going away on a staycation, or heading on a business trip, your oral health shouldn’t take a back seat and should still be a priority. Despite routines shifting and temptations being everywhere, it’s still easy to keep your teeth and gums in great shape on the go. In our blog, we’ll provide some practical oral health tips for when you’re travelling!
1. Pack a Travel-Sized Oral Care Kit
The first step starts at home before you even board the plane. Make sure you’ve packed your oral health travel essentials. These should include:
- Travel-size toothbrush and toothpaste
- Dental floss or interdental brushes
- Travel-size mouthwash (if possible, alcohol-free)
- Sugar-free chewing gum
2. Stay Hydrated
Travelling – especially flying – can lead to dehydration, which reduces saliva production. Saliva is vital for neutralising acids and washing away bacteria in your mouth. Also, after consuming sugary foods or beverages, drinking water can help wash away the sugar (and any food particles for that matter), which can help prevent cavities. To maintain good oral hygiene while travelling, drink plenty of water throughout your trip, especially during flights or hot weather.
3. Watch Out for Sugary Travel Snacks
It’s tempting to load up on sweets, fizzy drinks, and snacks when you’re on the move. But frequent snacking – especially on sugary or acidic foods – can increase the risk of tooth decay. Instead, opt for:
- Nuts
- Cheese
- Vegetables like carrot sticks or celery
- Sugar-free gum to help stimulate saliva
4. Stick to Your Routine (As Much as You Can)
Even if you’re changing time zones or staying up later than usual, one thing stays the same: the importance of your oral health routine. Aim to brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes and floss once a day. Keeping your oral care routine while travelling consistently is the best way to avoid issues like plaque build-up or gum irritation.
5. Be Wary of Tap Water in Certain Destinations
In some countries, tap water isn’t safe to drink or use for brushing teeth. In these cases, use bottled or purified water for rinsing and brushing to avoid potential infections or bacteria exposure.
6. Replace Your Toothbrush After Your Trip (or Sooner)
Toothbrushes can pick up bacteria while travelling, especially if they’re not stored properly. Consider using a toothbrush covered with ventilation and replacing it when you return home, particularly if your brush was exposed to different environments.
7. Plan If You Have Dental Work or Issues
If you’re undergoing dental treatment or recently had work done (like fillings or crowns), check with your dentist before travelling. For longer trips, it’s smart to bring your dentist’s contact details and know where you can find emergency dental care at your destination.
Taking care of your teeth doesn’t have to be complicated when you’re away from home. By sticking to a simple oral hygiene routine while travelling, staying hydrated, and following the other oral health tips we’ve provided for when travelling, you can enjoy your trip and return with your smile just as healthy as when you left. Are you looking to book an appointment before your next trip? Contact our professional and expert team today!