People are creatures of habit. When we leave the comforts of home for travel, we often alter our common behavior patterns and regiments. For example, while on vacation, you may forget to take your daily supplements. When working or vacationing in a location foreign to your daily surroundings, it is easy to forget to maintain healthy dental habits. Our dentist offers some easy-to-use tips for caring for your teeth on the go. [pullquote]When working or vacationing in a location foreign to your daily surroundings, it is easy to forget to maintain healthy dental habits. [/pullquote]
If space is a factor with your luggage, purchase travel-sized toothpastes and mouthwash. Be sure to choose ADA-accepted, fluoridated toothpaste. If you don’t already have one, purchase a travel case for your toothbrush. Make sure the travel case has small holes on its ends so that excess water drains out. This allows your toothbrush to dry between uses. Do not forget to pack some dental floss, too. Remember to brush your teeth at least two times a day for a minimum of two minutes both times. Teeth should be flossed at least once a day. Be sure to drink at least eight glasses of water throughout the day to dilute acids, as well.
In case of a dental emergency, ask our current dentist for a referral for a dentist in the location to which you are traveling, preferably one that accepts patients outside of office hours for emergencies. During times of traumatic injury to the face or teeth, time is of the essence. Keep Save-A-Tooth solution in your purse or travel luggage (available at most pharmacies) in case a tooth is ever knocked out of its socket. This solution will keep a displaced tooth alive while you travel to your emergency dental appointment. If this solution is unavailable, place your injured, knocked out tooth or its pieces in milk, not water. If a dental injury hasn’t completely knocked out your tooth but the force and trauma has caused it become dislodged from its proper position, avoid touching the area and make an emergency appointment as soon as you can.
To learn more about caring for your teeth on the go, contact our office at 972-458-2464 to schedule an appointment with our experienced dentist.
