Taking care of your teeth on holiday

While you may be planning a break this summer, you can’t take a holiday from a good oral health routine. Whether you’re hitting the beach or hiking trails, or heading off on a business trip, we’ve got you covered with a teeth cleaning routine that will keep you feeling dazzling.

1. Keep your supplies handy

Brushing your teeth is a great way to freshen up after a long day travelling. Keep your oral health essentials in a separate pouch - we recommend a toothbrush, toothpaste and an interdental cleaner. If you make a packing list, ensure you add all your tooth care equipment to it. Don’t forget any other items from your routine - particularly if you wear a retainer, brace or other products. Packing is a great time to check when you last replaced your toothbrush or brush head - if it’s been longer than three months, pack new ones.

A toothbrush case can be a good addition to your line up, enabling you to keep it free from dirt - but try to air dry your toothbrush before putting it in the case. Otherwise bacteria can grow on the bristles. Ideally, purchase a large toothbrush case with ventilation holes to keep air circulating in it.

If you’re flying, we suggest putting your oral essentials pouch in your carry on luggage. A travel sized toothpaste will ensure you can keep it with you on the flight, and you’ll be able to brush and floss up before reaching your destination with a dazzling smile. Drink plenty of water while travelling to keep your body hydrated and your mouth fresh - remember to remind the kids to do the same too.

We also recommend packing a toothbrush and toothpaste in both your carry on and checked luggage, so if one goes missing, you have a back up. However, most large oral health brands are international, so you’re sure to find your favourite in your destination’s supermarkets.

2. Pack sugar free gum

Chewing sugar-free gum can help neutralise acids and minimise bacteria. It also increases saliva production and helps to wash away food particles after a meal. If you can’t find a bathroom to brush, chewing gum can help freshen your mouth to tide you over until you can. Chewing can also relieve ear pressure on a flight.

3. See the dentist before you go

The last thing you want on holiday is a dental problem giving you grief. Have any niggling problems checked out by your dentist before you go. You don’t want to spend your trip negotiating healthcare when abroad, so travel with confidence by sorting out a check up before.

4. Stick to your routine

Don’t let a holiday be an excuse for a break from your oral routine. Continue to make time to brush twice a day and floss once - whatever you’re doing. While beachy, undone hair and minimal make up are the order of the day on holiday - dirty teeth are not!

5. Don’t overdo the sugar

While you are on holiday, you may let your diet and exercise routine slip. But your oral health one must not! Try not to get into the habit of daily ice creams by the pool and indulging in all the puddings on an all inclusive. Keep sugary snacks, drinks and treats to a minimum.