It’s almost that time of year again. As the remaining days of the school begins to wane and the days grow warmer and longer, summer trips are right around the corner. Whether you’re crossing the country or the county with your family, road trips come with an added list of things to consider and items to pack.
There’s lots of details to line up for your family’s perfect road trip and we wanted to give you some help. Our crew at Christopher and Anne Thompson, DDS got together this month and came up with a list of five important oral health travel tips for your and your family before you hit the road.
Keep Your Toothbrushes Dry While Traveling on the Road
People have a tendency to shove their wet toothbrushes into their road trip bag while they’re on the go. This can cause yucky bacteria to accumulate on your toothbrush and keeps them from staying clean. When you get to your destination, put your toothbrush bristles up in a cup so it has a good chance to dry out.
Keep Your Dental Emergency Numbers Handy
Basic first aid protocols should be part of any parent’s road trip packing list. You should always keep a first aid kit in your car, and you should know what to do if you experience a dental or other medical emergency. Before you leave for your summer destination, ask your dentist for advice on what you should do if a dental emergency arises when you’re away from home.
Have a Backup
Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teens, kids tend to forget things like their toothbrushes when they’re traveling. Depending on the size of your family, make sure to pack an extra toothbrush or two for backup just in case this happens to a forgetful family member.
Pack Your Own Healthy Snacks
One of the biggest things that can throw you off your routine when you’re traveling is the food you choose to snack on. Many people opt for greasy fast food or sugary snacks when they’re watching the mile markers fly by. Do yourself and your family a favor by prepping healthy snacks ahead of your trip. Try things like baby carrots and cold water instead of chips and soda. Sugarless gum can also help rinse your mouth and aid saliva production in between snacks.
Schedule a Dental Appointment at Least a Month Before Your Trip
Unseen hazards like tiny cracks or chips in your teeth can cause big trouble on a road trip. Have your dentist take a close look with their hi-tech tools before you’re away from your home dental office to look for trouble spots.
Thanks for Reading!
Have fun this summer and plan ahead to ensure more great memories with your family if you’ll be traveling. If you enjoy our blog, please like our Facebook page to see our newest blog posts.