Are you planning a family getaway this spring?
Whether you’re heading north to chase some sunshine or just taking a well-earned break close to home, make sure your family’s teeth don’t suffer while you relax.
Australian Dental Association (ADA) federal president Dr Chris Sanzaro has some holiday hints:
– Decreased humidity on your flight can cause dehydration, resulting in a dry mouth, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and tooth decay.
Drink lots of water on the flight, take an empty water bottle in your check-in for easy refills at your destination, and pack a toothbrush and mini toothpaste in your hand luggage to brush after meals.
Extra hydration is also essential to combat increased coffee or alcohol consumption.
Sip water between your wine, mixed drink, or cocktail to reduce the residual sugars left on teeth.
– “When it’s the school term, kids are in a routine and clean their teeth as their last chore before charging out the door for school,” Dr Sanzaro said.
“In the school holidays, there are not so many routines throughout the day, so kids may get up, head for the TV or breaky table, and often those teeth-brushing routines go down the plughole.”
Dr Sanzaro said little written reminders in the bathroom or the kitchen to brush could help, or a ‘no play until teeth are clean’ rule.
– From windsurfing to water skiing, rock climbing to bungee jumping, protect teeth and gums by packing a mouthguard for yourself and the kids, and keep it in your swim bag or backpack so it actually gets used.
“Mouthguards from dentists are custom-made and a better fit for your individual mouth shape than off-the-shelf boil and bite ones from pharmacies,” Dr Sanzaro said.
– Scuba diving can cause a condition called tooth squeeze, or barodontalgia, where you get tooth pain from a change in pressure. There’s not usually an easy fix for this, but if you experience it, let your dentist know – further investigation should reveal the cause.
Try not to bite too hard on mouthpieces for snorkelling and scuba to avoid jaw pain. Massaging the jaw muscles and the rest of the face can also help.
“Holidays can be enough of a stretch on the family budget without surprise dental issues while away,” Dr Sanzaro said.
“It’s helpful to see your dentist before going and get them to check your teeth.”
