The Easter break is a popular time for the family to take a trip, whether a road trip within the UK or those fortunate enough to have a sunny holiday abroad. It is common for us to change our oral hygiene routine at this time as we become laxer. The electric toothbrush gets left behind, and the good old manual travel toothbrush comes out to see the light of day. Let us look at the most effective ways to keep your oral hygiene intact during your travels.
1. Store your toothbrush correctly
It is pretty normal to throw your toothbrush into your toiletry bag and check it off the list. But consider that your toothbrush will need protection from bacteria on surfaces in your hotel room or holiday accommodation. To keep your toothbrush clean and protected, you should invest in a toothbrush holder or cover. Products vary and can be found as cases or toothbrush headcovers. You can find a pack of 4 cases for the family on Amazon for as little as £3.99.
2. Use bottled water to brush
Some countries, unfortunately, don’t have the luxury of drinkable tap water- so when it comes to brushing your teeth, you won’t want to be swilling your mouth out with tap water or using it on your toothbrush. The best thing to do is keep a bottle of store-bought water and a cup in the bathroom to use when brushing. If you forget and accidentally use the tap water, find a local store and purchase a new toothbrush as you don’t want to use one with harmful bacteria and unsafe water.
3. Chew gum during travel
If you are facing a long journey to your holiday destination, you may not have the time or the facilities to keep up with your oral hygiene routine. To keep bacteria and plaque build-up at bay, take a packet of sugar-free gum with you on your travels. Gum increases saliva production, which naturally rinses your mouth of bacteria. This will keep your mouth minty fresh whilst also keeping your oral hygiene intact.
4. If you forget your toothbrush
We all end up doing it at some point. No matter how many times you go through your checklist, there is that daunting feeling of realising you have forgotten something AFTER you have arrived at your destination. But there are a few options if you have forgotten your essentials.
If the stores are closed, you can rinse your mouth thoroughly with water, followed by adding some toothpaste to your finger or washcloth and rubbing it over your teeth. This may not be as good as your toothbrush, but it will do the job temporarily. When the stores are open, go and pick yourself up a new toothbrush. We recommend looking for a toothbrush that has ADA approval and if one is not available, look for a soft-bristled toothbrush as it is less likely to cause damage to your teeth.
5. Resume your usual routine
It can be challenging to get back into the swing of things when returning to your daily life after your holiday. But if you have been a little relaxed on your break with your oral hygiene, then it is ever more critical to get back into brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing once a day. Enjoying sweet treats and letting loose a little is fine temporarily, but don’t put off your hygiene routine for longer than necessary.
For dental concerns or to book your post-holiday check-up go to oradent.org.
