It is time for summer vacation! Whether you are looking forward to lounging on the beach or hiking in the mountains, you should reserve a bit of time to think about your oral health before you take off. How can you maintain a healthy smile during summer vacation? Here are five practical tips:
Visit Your Dentist
Has it been a while since your last trip to the dentist? It would be wise to schedule a cleaning and checkup. They will look for any signs of oral health problems that could develop into a more serious situation down the road. Hopefully, you will be able to receive necessary treatment before your vacation.
You will also get to enjoy a thorough cleaning during your appointment. Your smile will feel fresh and confident!
Pack the Essentials
Packing for a vacation can be a bit stressful — it can be easy to forget about the little things, including your oral hygiene supplies. Before you walk out the door, double-check that you have the following items in your suitcase:
- A toothbrush
- Fluoridated toothpaste
- Floss
- Any special items that you need to care for braces, dentures, or other oral appliances
Stay Hydrated
In all of the buzz surrounding your vacation, you might forget to drink enough water. However, it is very important that you stay hydrated. Without adequate water intake, you could suffer from dry mouth, which can contribute to issues like cavities and bad breath. Try to carry a bottle of water with you during all of your activities so you can take a few sips whenever you think of it.
Protect Your Lips
Lots of people are diligent about applying SPF to their body, but their lips often get overlooked. You can prevent burns, skin cancer, and premature signs of aging by applying an SPF lip balm once every hour or so. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat during the hottest part of the day is also a good idea.
Know What to Do in an Emergency
You will probably not run into any serious dental problems during your vacation. If you do, though, there are a few steps you can take to mitigate the severity of the situation:
- Seek help. Google, your travel insurance, or your hotel concierge may be able to point you toward a reputable local dentist.
- Pack basic supplies. Gauze, over-the-counter pain reliever, and other basic medical items can help you care for issues like toothaches and small mouth wounds.
- Treat your tooth gently. If a tooth is damaged or in pain, avoid chewing with it. You should try to keep it clean and avoid foods that might worsen sensitivity, including spicy, hot, and cold items.
A healthy smile is the best accessory for summer vacation! Apply the tips in this article to protect your oral health throughout the sunny season and well into the future.
Meet the Practice
The talented experts at the Center for Contemporary Dentistry provide preventive, restorative, and cosmetic oral care in our modern office. If you have questions about how you can protect your teeth and gums from harm, we would be happy to answer them. Get in touch with our Belmont dental team at 603-556-7047.