Keep Your Dental Care While on Vacation

If you and your family are going away this summer, we hope you have a fabulous trip! But time away doesn't mean a vacation away from dental care. Here are some pointers to make dental care more accessible. We'll try to answer common questions and dilemmas for travelers.

Is toothpaste a liquid?

If you're flying, here's the scoop: the Transportation Security Administration asks that all carry on ‘liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes' be less than 3.4 ounces and placed in a quart-sized bag for screening. Larger sizes can be added to checked luggage.

So, the answer is yes, because toothpaste is a paste or gel, which qualifies under the 'liquids' category. Your options are to check the big tube of toothpaste in your checked luggage or get a container which is under 3.4 ounces and put it in a quart-sized bag. The last thing you want is to have your toothpaste confiscated! For more information, visit their website.

Protect your toothbrush

A toothbrush cover doesn't just keep a toothbrush clean. It also protects the bristles from being crushed, bent, or broken. We recommend an antibacterial toothbrush cover with venting to help your toothbrush dry. If you're on the go and your toothbrush spend valuable drying time packed away, buy a second toothbrush and designate one the 'morning' toothbrush and one the 'evening' toothbrush.

Appliances and night guards

If you have concerns that your retainer or night guard is dirty, you're probably right! Spending time inside your mouth means these devices have plenty of time to pick up some of the billions of bacteria in your saliva. But, you can buy a portable UV cleaner to kill these germs, as well as any mold or fungi spores which may try to grow in the process of your travels.

Rechargeable irrigator

When you're on the go, you're not going to be able to bring your full-sized water jet tool. Why not buy a rechargeable portable model?

These popular items serve as a pinch hitter for their full-sized counterparts when you don't have space or want to risk breaking the home model.

Routine is essential

While you're away, it can be easy to get out of your regular brushing and flossing routines. Traveling in a car, time zones, and living out of a suitcase or travel bag can all affect your ability to keep a quality dental routine in place. Some people combat this by carrying a portable toothbrush in their pocket and brushing after every meal. You can also have the rule to 'brush before you sleep and when you wake up.' Each person has different mechanisms for their situation, to help them stick to a dental routine as much as possible. Don't forget to floss!

See your dentist

Don't forget to schedule your summer dental appointment around your travels! Routine home care is excellent, but there's nothing like professional dental care to ensure your teeth are clean and in good shape.

When you get home from traveling, your dentist will be glad to see you.

If you need a gentle, caring dental team, please call our office at (623) 362-2550. We’ll give you the very best dental care we can!