Whether you’re catching a red-eye flight to visit family or embarking on a winter vacation getaway, holiday travel can disrupt our normal dental care routines. Between time zone changes, packed itineraries, and living out of a suitcase, protecting your teeth from damage or decay can be challenging. Here’s how to keep your smile healthy while you’re on the move this holiday season.

1. Pack a Travel-Smart Dental Kit

The key to maintaining dental health while traveling goes beyond tossing a toothbrush in your bag. Create a comprehensive yet compact dental kit that prepares you for any situation. Pack a protective cover for your toothbrush to keep it clean in your luggage, and consider a collapsible travel brush to save space. Include travel-sized toothpaste, floss, and a small bottle of alcohol-free mouthwash that won’t irritate your teeth and gums at high altitudes.

Remember to pack extras of essential items in both your carry-on and checked luggage. Travel delays or lost bags shouldn’t mean compromising your dental care. For international travel, pack familiar dental products as your preferred brands might not be available at your destination.

2. Maintain Routine Despite Time Changes

Time zone changes can wreak havoc on all our habits, including dental care. Stick to your usual dental care schedule based on your activities rather than the clock. If you’re on a long-haul flight, set a reminder to brush after meals and snacks, regardless of what time it shows at your origin or destination.

Keep a dental kit easily accessible during your journey. Those long international flights or cross-country road trips often involve multiple meals and snacks. Being prepared to clean your teeth can help you arrive feeling fresh and maintain your oral health routine from day one of your trip.

3. Stay Hydrated and Smart Snack

Travel often means grabbing convenient snacks and dealing with dry cabin air on flights. Pack a reusable water bottle (empty through security, of course) and fill it once you’re past TSA. Staying hydrated helps maintain saliva production, your mouth’s natural defense system.

Choose travel snacks wisely. Opt for tooth-friendly options like nuts, cheese sticks, or fresh fruits rather than sticky or sugary snacks that can cling to teeth for hours. If you do indulge in sweet holiday treats while traveling, rinse thoroughly with water afterward if brushing isn’t immediately possible.

4. Plan for Dental Emergencies

Nobody wants to deal with a dental emergency while traveling, but being prepared can save you from holiday stress. Research dental offices at your destination before you leave, especially if you’re traveling internationally. Save your dentist’s contact information in your phone – they might be able to recommend a colleague in your destination city if needed.

Consider traveling with temporary filling material or dental wax in your kit. While these aren’t permanent solutions, they can provide temporary relief until you can seek professional care. If you have recent dental work or known issues, consult your dentist before traveling for personalized recommendations.

5. Protect Your Smile During Winter Sports

If your holiday travel includes winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, pack appropriate dental protection. A custom-fitted mouthguard offers the best protection for winter sports enthusiasts. Also, remember that cold air can trigger tooth sensitivity – breathing through your nose rather than your mouth while outdoors can help minimize discomfort.

Also, remember to keep your toothbrush dry between uses to prevent bacterial growth. Pack sugar-free gum with xylitol for times when brushing isn’t possible. Set phone reminders for your regular dental care routine in your new time zone.

Before embarking on your holiday travels, schedule a quick checkup with us to ensure your smile is vacation-ready. Starting your trip with a clean bill of dental health can help you focus on making memories rather than worrying about oral health issues. We hope these tips help you with protecting your teeth over the holidays. Safe travels, and remember – a healthy smile is your best travel companion!

To schedule a free consultation with Rod Eccles, DDS, call us today at 317-682-0884 or ”schedule.