For many people, summertime brings sunshine, ice cream, and lots of traveling! Whether you’re camping at a National Park or dipping your toes in the ocean, it’s important to maintain proper oral hygiene habits while on the road. Often times passports, bathing suits, and phone chargers are the first items thrown in a suitcase while packing. When traveling, however, it is important that you also pack items to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Apart from packing your toothbrush and toothpaste, you might be thinking, “What else should I remember about dental care and hygiene when traveling?” Here are several tips from our dentist in Los Angeles, Dr. Moradzadeh, for taking good care of your teeth while vacationing:
Bring your dentist’s phone number with you.
You never know what accidents might occur while taking a trip. In case of a dental emergency, it is important to have your family dentist’s number handy. If an accident occurs, your dentist will be able to answer critical questions about your condition and direct you towards proper treatment.
Don’t forget to pack toothpaste and floss.
Nowadays, toothpaste and floss come in travel sizes, making these items easier to pack than ever! Don’t make the mistake of thinking that you will pick up some toothpaste or floss at your destination. Especially if you are traveling to a foreign country, it may not be possible to buy a reputable and safe brand of toothpaste or floss.
Keep your toothbrush ventilated when transporting it.
The most important thing when traveling is to ensure that your travel toothbrush container is well ventilated. Enclosed containers or plastic bags can cause bacteria to grow, leading to dental infections. Additionally, the buildup of bacteria can cause infections in other places of the body. To avoid getting sick, keep your toothbrush in a well-ventilated container.
Keep sugarless gum handy.
If you are traveling long distance, especially by air, you might not have the opportunity to brush your teeth for extended periods of time. Chewing gum reduces ear popping during plane rides and helps reduce the buildup of bacteria after eating. Additionally, sugarless chewing gum helps clean your teeth and freshens your breath.
Maintaining tip-top dental health may not be on the top of your list while vacationing, but it’s an important habit to practice! By following these simple guidelines, you can enjoy your trip and protect your oral health at the same time! For further information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Moradzadeh please contact Crystal Dental Center at 213.748.8448 or visit www.CrystalDentalCenters.com to learn more.
