Tooth-Friendly Travel: How to Take Care of Your Smile During the Holidays

According to AAA, more than 115 million Americans will travel domestically over the next few weeks. If you’re one of them, then you may be arranging dog-sitters, double-checking flight times, packing your suitcase, and handling everything else that comes with leaving town. Of course, it’s important to take care of something else: your smile. With this in mind, here’s how to take care of your teeth while traveling in a few simple steps.

1. Double-Check That You Have Your Oral Hygiene Essentials

In addition to packing your phone charger, clothes, and everything else you need for your trip, make sure you have a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash. That way, you can complete your oral hygiene regimen whether you’re eating at a restaurant on the side of the road or are on the plane heading to your destination.

2. Keep Sugary Treats to a Minimum

During the season of pecan pie, peppermint bark, and candy canes, avoiding sugar may not be realistic. The good news is that you don’t need to eliminate it from your diet entirely to keep your teeth decay-free. Instead, take proactive measures to help prevent you from over-consuming added sugar, like filling your plate with vegetables first.

3. Pack Sugar-Free Gum

Although having travel-sized oral hygiene tools will make brushing and flossing your teeth on-the-go convenient in most situations, there are some exceptions. For example, if you are running through the airport trying to get to your terminal on time, you won’t have time to stop. In that case, chew on some sugar-free gum! This will help prevent food particles from clinging to your teeth while also keeping your breath minty-fresh.

4. Drink Plenty of Water

It may be tempting to start your morning with coffee and end your evening with wine, especially on hectic travel days. However, it’s best to make water your drink of choice. Sipping on this sugar-free beverage throughout the day will keep you hydrated, help prevent dry mouth, and keep your mouth clean!

About the Doctor

Dr. Gupta’s educational background and advanced training are certainly impressive, and it all began in India. After completing dental school, she chose to pursue her second dental degree at the New York University College of Dentistry. Since then, she has completed more than 700 hours of continuing education, she has become a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, and she has undergone mini residencies in topics like dental implants and endodontics. If you would like to schedule a consultation with her – whether it’s for your next checkup or essential restorative care – don’t hesitate to visit her website or call (469) 729-7707.