The holidays can be a busy time of year for many of us, especially if traveling is on your agenda. But whether you’re simply going away for a long weekend or taking an extended vacation abroad, one thing is certain: you need to be taking great care of your teeth while you’re away from home! Luckily, this can easily be done with a few sensible habits and smart preparation. Here’s what you need to keep in mind as you pack your bags and hit the road.
Tip #1. Don’t Neglect Your Daily Oral Hygiene
Your vacation itself might be very busy, and when you’re busy, it’s easy to forget about the little things—like brushing and flossing each day. Combine this with being away from home, and it being the holiday season, and it creates plenty of scenarios in which oral hygiene may slip your mind. Even during late nights or early mornings, be sure you’re making time to brush for 2 to 3 minutes and floss thoroughly.
Tip #2. Be Mindful of Holiday Snacks & Drinks
If you’re traveling, you might also be prone to more snacking in between meals. And you might also be eager to try new local sweets and holiday desserts, but it goes without saying that a lot of these sugary confections can be disastrous for your smile if you aren’t careful. Aim to enjoy these treats in moderation or pair them up with meals to reduce their negative impact on your smile. And it never hurts to wash everything down with water!
Tip #3. Know If You Can Trust the Water
You need to find out about the local water before you arrive at your destination and plan accordingly. If it’s safe to drink the tap water, it’s safe to use it to rinse your mouth and brush your teeth; however, if you’ll be drinking bottled water during your trip, you will also want to use it for your oral hygiene.
Tip #4. Schedule a Checkup Before You Leave
One of the last things you want to happen is for you to arrive at your destination only to learn realize that you have a dental issue! You can prepare for your trip by visiting your dentist before you go away; the holidays may be busy, but you’ll be glad you found the time for this, as it can prevent dental emergencies and ensure you remain smiling throughout your vacation.
Going on vacation doesn’t mean taking a break from oral hygiene, even if the holidays are keeping you incredibly busy. By following these tips, you can keep things on track and look your best for all your holiday vacation photos!
About the Practice
Under the leadership of Dr. Jason Aptaker, our team here at Shore Points General and Implant Dentistry has served patients in Manasquan and the nearby area, including Wall Township, for several years. We offer a wide range of services, including routine checkups and cleanings that’ll keep your smile in great shape heading into the upcoming holiday season. If you have any questions about the blog or you need to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one before you travel for the holiday season, please reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (732) 223-9199.