Preparing for Summer Vacation? 4 Things You Can Do to Better Protect Your Smile

No matter where you and your family plan to vacation this summer, it’s important that you have everything you need to ensure the health and safety of you and those you love. To prevent dental emergencies while you’re away, you’ll want to take special precautions, especially if you have young children with you. To prepare you for your trip and minimize the risk of making a sudden visit to a local emergency dentist, here are 4 things you can do to better protect your smile.

Drink Plenty of Water

Staying hydrated is key. It doesn’t matter if you’re relaxing on a beach or near a pool, skiing on the slopes, or hiking through the mountains, water is a necessity. Not only does it quench your thirst and keep your body from becoming dehydrated, but it also encourages your salivary glands to work at an optimal level. This is beneficial, especially if you are consuming foods that contain high amounts of sugar and acid. The water will not only flush out the toxins, but your saliva will wash away food particles and bacteria that try to adhere to your tooth enamel.

Keep an Emergency Frist Aid Kit Nearby

It’s the one thing you pack that you hope never to use, but it’s a must-have when preparing for a trip. This small box can make a big difference should you or your child experience a dental emergency. Inside your kit, make sure that you pack gauze, a small container with a lid, saline solution, pain relievers (i.e., Ibuprofen), and your dentist’s phone number. While you may be unable to get in to see them during your trip, you can still alert them to the situation once you’ve made contact with a local dentist for help.

Stock Up on Healthy Snacks

Before leaving on your trip, you’ll likely make a stop at your local grocery store to pick up some snack foods for you and your family. While a few special items are fine in moderation, it’s best to keep your family’s snacking habits full of healthy options. Instead of buying up bags of chips, cookies, and sodas, opt for bottled water, fruit, vegetables, cheese, nuts, and lean proteins. You can easily store them in baggies and coolers, allowing them to stay fresh. By making healthier choices, everyone can avoid the potential of a problematic toothache caused by decay.

Stick to a Routine

Yes, vacation is a time for staying up late and sleeping in, but if you and your family want to avoid a trip to the emergency dentist’s office, make sure everyone is sticking to their oral hygiene routines. This means brushing teeth twice a day for two minutes, flossing at least once a day, and rinsing with an ADA-approved mouthwash. By continuing to practice good dental health habits while on vacation, everyone can embrace a healthier smile.

Your summer vacation is a time for fun, excitement, and making memories. Be sure you and your loved ones are taking the necessary steps to keep smiles healthy, happy, and ready for that photo-worthy moment.

About the Author
Want to ensure your smile is ready for your summer vacation? Dr. Rina Singh and her team of experts can prepare you for your week-long getaway by taking care of your teeth and gums before you leave as well as offer tips to ensure your smile remains injury-free while you’re away. If you want to avoid a trip to the emergency dentist while relaxing on the beach or hiking in the mountains, call (717) 937-8180 or visit our website.