Taking Care of Your Teeth While Traveling

When you travel, it can be hard to keep taking care of your teeth like you do at home. But with some planning, you can keep your smile healthy while you're away.

Schedule a Pre-Travel Checkup

If possible, schedule your next regular visit before your trip, as advised by the American Dental Association (ADA). The dentist will be able to spot any problems before they happen, which may help avoid any dental emergencies while you’re away. And don’t forget to keep your dentist’s office number handy in case you do have a dental emergency. 

Pack Smart

Create a packing list so you don't forget your important oral health tools. Keep your toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and mouthwash where you can easily get to them, such as your carry-on bag. 

If you do keep these items in your carry-on bag, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) limits travelling with liquids. Items must be 3.4 ounces and placed in a quart-sized bag.

If you do forget your toothbrush, rinse your mouth with water to wash away the bacteria. You can also use toothpaste on a clean washcloth or your finger, if needed. Make sure to find a store and purchase a toothbrush as soon as possible.

Protect Your Oral Health Items

Traveling can be rough on your things. Use a resealable plastic bag to keep your toothbrush clean during travel. And when you arrive at your destination, remove your toothbrush from the bag and let it air dry to avoid germ growth.

Worried about mouthwash leaking? Put it in a plastic bag. Even if it leaks, it won't ruin your other things. Do this with your shampoo, lotion and other liquids, too!

Stick to Your Schedule

Try your best to stick to your oral health routine while you’re away to prevent cavities, gum disease, bad breath and other problems. Our article, Brushing Your Teeth the Right Way, provides tips on how to brush your teeth and get the most out of your oral health habits.

Pack Sugarless Gum

Chewing sugarless gum can not only help relieve ear pressure during a flight, but helps prevent tooth decay. The ADA says that chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes after a meal can help prevent cavities. Chewing sugarless gum keeps saliva flowing to help wash away bacteria that causes cavities. 

Watch What You Eat

It's fun to try new foods when traveling, but you should keep your oral and overall health in mind at mealtime.  

• Limit sugar. But if you do choose to eat or drink sweet things, rinse afterwards with water or mouthwash and brush your teeth 60 minutes after to avoid cavities.
• Drink water. It keeps you hydrated and helps rinse away food particles. When visiting a foreign country, be sure to drink bottled water to avoid getting sick, advises the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). 
• Fruit and vegetables. Yes, they’re good for you, but crunchy root vegetables like carrots, potatoes or jicama will also help keep your teeth clean and healthy.
• Limit alcohol. The ADA advises against drinking alcohol due to the increased risk of gum disease and the harm it may cause to your overall health. If you do drink while traveling, make sure to rinse your mouth out with water and brush your teeth 60 minutes after.

And once you return home, make sure that you get back into your normal routine of brushing twice a day for two minutes and flossing.

Improving the oral health of all is our mission at DentaQuest, part of Sun Life U.S. Click here for more helpful oral health tips and information for you and your family.