Before you go, schedule a check-up.
Preventing dental issues before they arise is the greatest method to avoid unforeseen oral issues when traveling. Build a rapport with your dentist and discuss any potential hazards in an honest manner. A few weeks before to a vacation, if at all possible, plan your next routine appointment so that any problems may be resolved before you go. Your dentist can identify any possible issues and ensure they are taken care of with a comprehensive examination. Your dentist will have the most recent data about your teeth, including x-rays, and you’ll feel more at ease.
In an emergency…
Keep a business card in your wallet or your cell phone close to hand with your dentist’s contact details. It can be challenging for a patient to distinguish between conditions that require immediate attention and those that can wait; here is where a doctor can be helpful. Your dentist may be able to offer advice over the phone and greater assistance to help you decide how to handle it until you can see a dentist in your area or until your vacation is ended if you have maintained regular appointments and they have a complete record of your medical history.
In the Event of an Emergency Abroad…
Contact your hotel concierge, the U.S. embassy, or the local consulate if you are going abroad and are in dire need of a dentist. They might be able to assist you in locating a dentist in your area if you have travel insurance. It would even be advised to search Google for information on the closest dentist.
Have You Lost Your Toothbrush?
If you are momentarily without a toothbrush, you may remove some of the bacteria that causes cavities by giving yourself a good rinse with water. In a pinch, you may even dab some toothpaste onto your clean finger or a fresh washcloth. Look for a toothbrush bearing the ADA Seal of Acceptance when you eventually arrive at the closest pharmacy. If Seal items aren’t available, get the softest brush you can find.
The Right Way to Transport Toothbrushes
The easiest approach to keep your toothbrush clean at home is to let it air dry, but while you’re on vacation, that may not always be feasible. What is the purpose of a portable toothbrush? In your vacation luggage, keep your toothbrush clean and separate from other items. To keep your toothbrush apart from the rest of your luggage, use a resalable bag or a clean toothbrush case. When you reach your location, open your sealed bag and allow your brush to air dry.
Bring a pack of gum that is ADA-accepted.
Chewing sugar-free gum can help prevent cavities while on vacation and ease ear strain during flights. Chewing sugar-free gum for 20 minutes after eating can help prevent cavities, according to research. This is because it increases saliva production, which aids in the removal of microorganisms that cause cavities. The ADA Seal ensures that sugarless gum will work.
When in doubt, use bottled water to brush.
Always use bottled water to brush if you are in a place where the water source is contaminated or if you are on a wilderness expedition and are unsure of how clean the stream is. What would happen if your toothbrush unintentionally got local water on it? If the water in the area is unsafe to drink, try to obtain a new toothbrush. If not, thoroughly rinse your brush with potable water.
After Your Trip, Get Back on Track
Don’t panic if you neglected to brush and floss while you were gone or if you overindulged in sweets during your trip. Resuming your usual routine as soon as you arrive home is the best course of action.Simply resume your daily schedule of flossing when you come home and brushing twice a day for two minutes each time.