What are Dental Travel Essentials?
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Floss
- Sugar-free Gum
- Water Bottle
- Maintaining Regular Dental Hygiene
Despite Covid, many are still finding themselves with summer plans that will take them out of Madison. If you’re hitting the road this summer, make sure to pack these essentials to keep your smile healthy, clean and bright while on vacation.
Toothbrush
The humble toothbrush is the essential tool in your dental travel toolkit. Brushing twice a day will remove any plaque buildup on your tooth enamel and prevent decay from forming.
If you are used to using an electric toothbrush but you’ll be vacationing in an area without electric outlets, such as a campsite, you can look for a battery-powered toothbrush to bring along instead.
You might also consider getting a ventilated travel case for your toothbrush. Storing a toothbrush in an airtight container like a plastic ziplock bag can result in bacteria growth from the moist environment.
Toothpaste
Next, you’ll want to be sure to pack an ADA-approved toothpaste that contains fluoride. Fluoride promotes the remineralization of dental enamel. It will keep your teeth strong all vacation long.
If you are flying, keep in mind that TSA regulations limit liquids, gels, and aerosols to 3.4 ounce containers or less. Make sure to pack a travel-sized tube in your carry-on. (We always include this size toothpaste in your hygiene appointments.) A full sized tube of toothpaste would be too large to take in your carry-on bag. Similarly, half-full, rolled-up toothpaste tubes are not allowed.
Floss
Another dental travel essential is floss. Floss helps remove food and plaque from between the teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach. Consider buying some floss picks instead of string floss for more convenient flossing on the road.
Sugar-Free Gum
Keep your breath fresh between toothbrushing by chewing sugar-free gums after or between meals. Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and any acid present in the mouth. ADA-approved gum includes: Bazooka Sugar Free Bubble Gum (Original), Eclipse Sugarfree Gum, Ice Breakers Ice Cubes, Orbit Sugarfree Gum, and Trident Sugar Free Gum.
For tooth-healthy snacks to pack for the road, read: The Best Snacks for Your Smile
Water Bottle
Another way to keep your breath fresh and your teeth healthy while traveling is to drink plenty of water. Traveling with a water bottle will ensure that you stay hydrated even if there aren’t convenient drinking fountains or beverages available.
Not drinking for long periods can result in a buildup of bacteria in your mouth. Bad breath is the unfortunate short-term side effect of this. If prolonged, it can even cause tooth decay.
Maintaining Regular Dental Hygiene
As you venture out for summer fun, it’s important to keep up your good dental hygiene habits even while on vacation. Brushing, flossing, and keeping sugar to a minimum will ensure that dental issues don’t arise when you’re trying to have fun.
General Dentistry in Madison, Wisconsin
If we can help you care for your teeth, please contact our office today. Affiliated Dentists offers many dental services, including general dentistry in Madison, Wisconsin.
What are Dental Travel Essentials? by Dr. Mark Gustavson
