And just like that… summer is here! If you’re planning on traveling during the warmer months – whether it’s heading to the beach or flying abroad – there are a few things you want to leave behind, like setting your alarm each morning. However, there are also a few things that need to come with you, including good dental care habits. With this in mind, here are a few summer vacation-specific oral health tips!
Tip #1: Brush and Floss Every Day
Even while you’re on vacation, you need to brush and floss consistently. If you don’t, then all of the delicious foods and drinks you’ve been enjoying are left alone on your teeth for hours on end, dramatically increasing your chances of returning home with a cavity or two. The good news is that you can keep it simple: brush for two full minutes twice a day, floss daily, and rinse with mouthwash each evening.
Tip #2: Chew on Sugar-Free Gum Between Meals
Whether you’re out sightseeing or enjoying lunch by the water, it might not be realistic to brush your teeth after each meal. That’s okay! In the meantime, chew on some sugar-free gum. In addition to keeping your breath minty-fresh, it will stimulate your saliva production and rinse away food particles from your teeth.
Tip #3: Avoid Eating Anything Too Crunchy
Enjoying the local cuisine is one of the best parts of traveling. However, particularly crunchy and hard foods can easily leave you with a chipped, cracked, or fractured tooth. Since handling a dental emergency away from home can be even more stressful, it may be a good idea to stick to softer foods.
Tip #4: Wear a Mouthguard During Sports
If your summer plans include something active, like beach volleyball or surfing, then you should absolutely bring a mouthguard with you (and wear it!). Remember, five million teeth are knocked out each year in sports-related incidents, and there are countless other ways your smile can be damaged in the process. A mouthguard will help prevent that from happening, ensuring your summer vacation doesn’t include a trip to a dentist’s office.
About the Doctor
Throughout her 13+ years of experience in the dental field, Dr. Deval Parmar has always prioritized honest, ethical, and caring dentistry. As for her studies, she attended MP Dental College in India before studying at the Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery. Ever since, she has prioritized continuing education, which has allowed her to advance her skills in everything from dental implants to Invisalign and laser dentistry. If you would like to schedule an appointment with her before your summer vacation, visit her website or call (972) 972-4646.