It’s summer! It’s finally time to start planning that big family vacation to give everyone a chance to unwind and have fun. But “getting away from it all” should never mean getting away from good oral care. When going on a big trip that takes you away from your normal routine, you may be tempted to be a bit more lax in taking care of your teeth, but don’t make that mistake! Your dentist in Vero Beach has some tips for keeping your mouth healthy even while you’re having some summertime fun.
Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated is especially important during those hot summer days, of course, but did you know water is great for keeping your mouth clean? It can help wash out the bacteria that cause plaque; plus, the water you drink every day has fluoride, a mineral that can help rebuild tooth enamel and ward off tooth decay.
Practice Good Brushing Habits
When traveling, always pack your toothbrush and don’t forget to use it daily. Make sure your toothbrush is dry when you pack it; a wet toothbrush is a prime target for bacteria to breed. Keep it in a ventilated case, and be sure to take it out to dry properly once you arrive at your destination.
Don’t Chew on Ice
An ice cube can be handy for cooling down on a hot day, but be careful not to chew it. Biting on hard substances like ice wears down tooth enamel and might even cause cracks.
Be Careful of Sugary Beverages
Unfortunately, drinks such as soda, certain kinds of juice, and even supposedly healthy energy drinks tend to be very high in sugar, a major contributor to tooth decay. Try to limit your intake of such beverages; more tooth-friendly alternatives may include unsweetened tea and plain sparkling water.
Be Prepared
It’s a good idea to pack more than one travel toothbrush as well as extra dental supplies. If you run out of toothpaste, use water as a substitute until you get more. It’d also be a good idea to see your dentist sooner rather than later so that potential oral health problems can be addressed before leaving town.
The little things can have a long-term impact on your health; letting your oral hygiene fall by the wayside during those relaxing summer months can come back to haunt you later. If you’re not sure whether you’ve been taking adequate care of your teeth, speak with your dentist about your mouth care routine. Remember, the less you need to worry about your teeth, the easier it will be to enjoy a well-earned vacation!
About the Practice
At Vero Implant and Esthetic Dentistry, Drs. Adam Jones and Giuliana Diaz Jones provide high quality preventive, cosmetic, and restorative oral care for patients in Vero Beach. They have specialty training in prosthodontics, the branch of dentistry dealing with the cosmetic restoration and replacement of teeth. To make an appointment for a checkup, visit their website or call (772) 234-5353.