It’s summer vacation season, which means it’s time to relax! But before you put your phone on “do not disturb” and close that laptop to jet off on a much-needed break, make sure your mouth is in good shape. After all, the last thing you want to do in your down time is deal with a dental emergency. Here are 5 helpful tips for making your mouth travel ready before you soak up those rays!
Know Before You Go
Whether you’re heading out of town or planning a relaxing staycation at home, why not schedule your oral health checkup before you unwind? Staying on top of preventative care and addressing any issues that need intervention before you go will allow you to relax while you’re on holiday and reduce your risk of unexpected dental emergencies.
Pack it Up
When it’s time to pack your suitcase, don’t forget to bring along your oral health essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss. If you’re flying and use mouthwash, make sure your bottles are small enough to meet TSA requirements, and be sure to stick to your regular hygiene routine even when you’re away from home!
Stay Hydrated
When it comes to beverages that are good for your body, there’s nothing better for you than water. It’s refreshing, delicious, and with no artificial colors or flavors, it’s great for your teeth, too! When temperatures soar, it can be easy to get dehydrated, but try to limit your consumption of juices, sodas, energy drinks, and alcoholic beverages and choose water instead.
Stay Onboard
Just because you’re on vacation from work or school doesn’t mean you should take a break from properly caring for your teeth. No matter where you go or what you do this summer, be sure to keep up with your regular oral hygiene routine. Brush twice a day, floss at least once a day, and don’t skip your regular dental checkups!
Wear SPF
You may already know that the sun’s rays can be very dangerous and can even cause skin cancer, but did you know that you can get oral cancer from UV exposure to your lips? That’s why if you plan on spending any time outdoors this summer, you need to wear sunblock with SPF on your face and body – especially on your lips. For added protection, wear a wide-brimmed hat that covers your face, neck, ears, and shoulders, as well as sunglasses that offer UV protection.
Remember, summer vacation is supposed to be fun! Leave your worries behind while still making your oral health part of your plans. If you have any questions or concerns, reach out to your dentist before you go so you can feel free to relax.
About Dr. Jonathan Smiley
With a last name like Smiley, you might say Dr. Jonathan Smiley was born to be a dentist. Between his compassionate care and his vast dental knowledge, Dr. Smiley is sure to help put a smile on your face, too!
A graduate of Dawson Dental Academy, Dr. Smiley holds memberships at the American Dental Association, the Iowa Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. To let the team at Smiley Family Dentistry show you why our patients are all so happy, visit our website or call us at 319-352-2270 to schedule an appointment.