Holiday Travel Hacks: Keeping Your Oral Health in Top Shape

The holiday season is quickly approaching with the promise of fun, family, and food! If you’re traveling, though, it can be difficult to fit oral care into your plans. With disrupted schedules, more limited access to facilities, and countless distractions, it’s easy to see why! But don’t worry, this blog has you covered. Continue reading to find some simple hacks that can keep your oral health in check while you enjoy your holiday!

Create and Pack an Oral Care Kit

Step one when considering oral care during a long trip should be creating a well-stocked kit! Ideally, everyone going on the trip should have their own personal bag to keep track of, allowing them to be personalized. However, these are some basic items you’ll need for each one:

• A travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste.
• Floss or floss picks.
• A small bottle of mouthwash (if flying, check TSA regulations to see what’s allowed).
• A toothbrush cover or case to keep it clean.

Having these essentials handy makes it easier to stick to your routine, no matter where you are!

Stay Hydrated

Traveling often involves long hours in planes, trains, or cars, which can leave your mouth feeling dry, especially in cooler destinations. A consistently dry mouth increases the risk of cavities, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout your travels!

As a bonus, if you plan to indulge in holiday treats or sip coffee, tea, or wine, having water handy is an excellent idea. Rinsing after meals can help wash away sugars and acids that would otherwise linger on your pearly whites.

Keep Close to Your Routine

Even if your schedule is packed with travel and holiday events, try to stick to your oral care routine as much as possible. Brushing twice a day for two minutes and flossing at least once a day is non-negotiable for keeping your teeth healthy.

If you have to, set reminders on your phone, especially for late nights when it’s tempting to skip brushing before bed.

With a little preparation and these simple tips, you can keep your teeth healthy while enjoying everything the holidays have to offer! If you still need guidance, call your dentist before you leave. They can offer more personalized advice and pencil you in for a pre-trip dental checkup. This will make doubly sure your oral health is in top shape for the holidays ahead!

About the Author

Dr. Roger Morton is a passionate dentist who enjoys helping his patients achieve better oral health for every season. He earned his dental degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Since then, Dr. Morton has continued to expand his skills with continuing education, learning more to continue serving his patients. Call (972) 442-5599 to schedule an appointment at Wylie Family Dentistry or visit our website to see a full menu of services.