How to maintain good oral hygiene on holiday this summer

How to maintain good oral hygiene on holiday this summer

Have you packed your toothbrush?

The summer holidays are approaching.

Summer is a time for relaxation and making memories with our loved ones.

However, taking a break from your routine shouldn’t mean taking a break from your oral hygiene.

Maintaining good oral health is important no matter where you are flying off to, and with a few simple tips and preparation, you can ensure that your smile remains bright throughout your holiday.

Keep reading for our guide to maintaining excellent oral health while on holiday this summer.

Be prepared

Before you jet off on your holiday, book a routine dental appointment. A pre-holiday visit to our dentists in Chatham ensures that any issues are addressed before they have the chance to spoil your fun. Our dentists can provide valuable advice tailored to your oral health needs, including guidance on how to maintain your dental routine while travelling.

You may also wish to consider undergoing cosmetic treatments such as professional teeth whitening before your holiday. A bright, white smile can boost your confidence and help you feel your best this summer.

Put together an oral hygiene travel kit

Bring along an oral hygiene travel kit. This kit should include travel-sized versions of all the products you use at home, ensuring you can stick to your normal routine without any hassle. By keeping up with your regular dental care regime, you’ll reduce the risk of developing oral health issues while you’re away.

What to pack

When packing your oral hygiene travel kit, make sure to include the following essentials:

Toothbrush – Pack a small, soft-bristled toothbrush.
Toothpaste – Bring a travel-sized tube of fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride helps to protect your teeth from decay.
Floss – Don’t forget dental floss to clean the areas a toothbrush can’t reach.
Mini mouthwash – A travel-sized bottle of mouthwash can freshen your breath and kill bacteria.
Portable water flosser – If you have a water flosser at home, consider investing in a portable one for when you are travelling.

Stay hydrated

Staying hydrated is beneficial for both your overall health and your smile. Drinking plenty of water helps to rinse away food particles and bacteria from your mouth, reducing the risk of bad breath and tooth decay. On top of this, water helps keep your mouth moist, which is essential for preventing dry mouth – a condition that can contribute to several oral health issues.

Make it a habit to drink water regularly throughout the day, especially after meals and snacks. If you’re enjoying a day out exploring or lounging by the pool, keep a water bottle handy to sip on.

Practice mindful eating and drinking

While it’s perfectly okay to indulge in delicious foods and drinks while on holiday, it’s important to do so in moderation to protect your oral health. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to tooth decay and other dental issues. Try to limit your intake of sweets, fizzy drinks and alcohol – and try to opt for healthy choices where possible.

When you do decide to indulge, a healthy tip is to brush your teeth afterwards or rinse your mouth with water. This can help to remove food particles that can contribute to plaque buildup and cavities.

Be prepared for dental emergencies

Despite your best efforts, dental emergencies can still happen while you’re on holiday. To be prepared, visit our Chatham practice before your break to discuss any potential concerns and get advice on what to do if an emergency arises. It’s also wise to research and note down the contact information of local dental services at your holiday destination, so you know where to seek help if needed.

Common dental emergencies include toothaches, broken or chipped teeth and lost fillings or crowns. Having a plan in place can help you stay calm and address the issue promptly, which ultimately can prevent further damage to your smile.

To find out more about what can be classed as a dental emergency, please click here.

Signs you should visit us when you’re back

While you’re enjoying your holiday, it’s important to remain aware of the oral health issues that can arise. If you notice any of the following signs, you should book an appointment at our Chatham practice upon your return:

* Toothache
* Bad breath
* Swollen gums
* Persistent dry mouth
* Pain or discomfort
* Sores in the mouth

Safe travels this summer

To ensure that your oral health is in check, why not book an appointment at Smil before you jet off?

This will give you peace of mind knowing that your teeth are in good shape.

If you’ve recently returned from your holiday and experienced any oral health issues, please do not delay booking a check-up at our Chatham practice. Our team is here to help you maintain a healthy smile all year round.

Please call us on 01634 557 223 to book your appointment.