Your bags are packed, and you’ve crossed everything off your to-do list; now it’s finally almost time for the vacation you’ve been dreaming about for far too long. But wait? Was that a twinge when you took a sip of hot coffee on the airplane, or were you just imagining it?
Why do dental problems always seem to show up right before a vacation, and what can you do about them before your next trip?
Why Dental Issues Might Surface Before or During Vacation
Although vacation and dental issues don’t always go hand in hand, several factors could contribute to a concern while traveling:
- Stress — Vacations are fun, but they can be stressful, too. And because stress can affect your immune health, you may experience an oral infection or swollen gums.
- Airplane tooth pain — When you fly, the altitude changes can trap air in tooth cracks or gaps in faulty fillings. This can lead to sharp pain.
- Dietary changes — You might find yourself consuming more sugary and acidic foods and beverages while on a trip, and this can cause a toothache.
- Change in routine — When you’re away from home, you might not be as diligent about your brushing and flossing routine; this can cause plaque to build up on your teeth.
What You Can Do Before Your Trip
To give you the best chance of enjoying your vacation without dental issues, here’s what you can do:
- Visit your dentist a few weeks before your trip for a routine checkup so they can clean your teeth and fix any small issues.
- Be sure to pack a toothbrush, floss, and mouthwash so you can maintain your oral health while traveling.
- Do your best to avoid hard and sticky foods, as they can loosen fillings, crowns, and other restorations.
Need a Dentist in Ponderay or Coeur d’Alene, ID?
If so, you’ve come to the right place! At North Idaho Dental Group, we strive to help every patient achieve a fully functional, aesthetically pleasing smile, and we’d love to meet you.
To schedule a consultation or appointment, feel free to reach out to our Ponderay office at (208) 255-1255 or our Coeur d’Alene office at (208) 667-8282.