You know how this will go. You love your family, but with that love comes a lot of teasing. If your teeth aren’t picture-perfect for holiday photos, you might never hear the end of it. Regular brushing and flossing are key this time of year, but if you’re traveling, keeping your smile pearly white can be difficult!
Have no fear – read up on these oral hygiene tips that have on-the-go cleaning in mind.
Protect Your Toothbrush
It’s not normally something you have to think about, but the bottom of your carry-on or your checked bag can be a pretty dirty place. Bacteria clinging to your clothes and travel items could easily hop on an exposed toothbrush and take a direct flight to your teeth. Find a to-go case for your toothbrush, and be sure to pack it in a dry area so moisture doesn’t encourage bacterial growth.
Don’t Forget Toothpaste and Floss
You can brush your teeth without toothpaste in a pinch, but do you really want to? Remember to take a tube of toothpaste with you, and if you’re flying, make sure it’s the right size so it doesn’t get confiscated by TSA.
Flossing is also important for keeping your teeth clean. Even the bacteria between your pearly whites will make your smile appear more yellow. Don’t forget to pack your trusty thread or water flosser!
Be Careful with Sugar and Acid
Once you finally reach your destination, you’ll likely be surrounded by seasonal sweets. However, sugar accelerates bacteria growth, and acid weakens your enamel, leaving your teeth more vulnerable to cavities and stains. You can still enjoy sugary and acidic treats – just be mindful of how much you consume, and rinse your mouth between sneaks to help dislodge debris and pigments.
Bring Sugar-Free Gum
Sugar-free will be your best friend during holiday travel! Because of gum’s unique texture, it actually helps keep teeth clean by pulling bacteria from your enamel and stimulating saliva production. That last part might sound gross but rest assured – saliva washes out oral debris and neutralizes harmful acids. Choose your favorite flavor and keep the pack with you wherever you go.
The holidays can be a difficult time for maintaining pearly white teeth, especially if you’re traveling. However, with a little forethought and extra care, you can still have a smile that’s ready for the family photo-shoot!
About the Practice
Dr. Robert Scheddin and Dr. Edward J. Dooley are compassionate dentists who know keeping up with oral hygiene isn’t always easy. If you need a cleaning before kicking off the festivities this holiday season, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with one of these experienced professionals! To contact their office, call 732-974-2288.
