The holidays are here, and for many, that means packing bags, hitting the road, or boarding a plane to celebrate with loved ones. But while the season is filled with joy (and plenty of delicious meals), it’s also important to keep your dental health in check—especially if you rely on dental devices for treatment or maintenance.
Traveling with these items doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation and tips from our dentist in Dunedin, you’ll be able to maintain your oral health routines, no matter where your holiday adventures take you. Bayshore Family Dental has put together a helpful guide to traveling with four common dental devices, plus some general tips to make your holiday travel worry-free.
1. Sleep Apnea Devices
For those with sleep apnea who rely on oral appliances or airway therapy, keeping up with your nighttime routine while traveling is crucial to ensuring a restful holiday.
- Pack Smart: Always carry your sleep apnea device in your carry-on bag if you’re flying. Checked luggage is more likely to get lost or mishandled.
- Bring the Essentials: Make sure to include any supplies, cases, and required cleaning materials on your packing list.
- Recreate Your Sleep Environment: At your destination, repeat your usual routine, from making sure the room is at the right temperature to bringing your favorite pillow.
2. Dental Night Guards
Night guards protect your teeth from grinding and clenching, ensuring your smile stays intact and pain-free. According to our dentist in Dunedin, traveling with them requires just a little extra care.
- Pack a Protective Case: Use a sturdy case to keep your night guard safe from damage or contamination.
- Keep It Dry: Ensure your night guard is dry before packing it to avoid bacterial growth during travel.
- Bring Cleaning Supplies: Pack a travel-sized toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to clean the night guard daily. There are also other cleaning options.
- Don’t Leave It Behind: Store the case in a place you’re unlikely to forget, like your toiletries bag or next to your bed at your destination.
3. Dentures
Dentures from Bayshore Family Dental are valuable for maintaining confidence and comfort during meals and gatherings. A little preparation can help you avoid any holiday mishaps.
- Pack a Spare: Bring an extra set of dentures if you have one available, just in case.
- Carry a Cleaning Kit: Include denture cleaner, a soaking solution, and your denture brush in your travel kit to keep them clean and fresh.
- Use a Safe Travel Case: Transport dentures in a durable case to prevent damage. If you’re flying, keep them in your carry-on bag to avoid accidents.
- Bring Adhesive (If Needed): Denture adhesive can ensure a secure fit, especially if you’ll be eating a lot of holiday treats.
4. Invisalign
With clear aligners like Invisalign®, staying consistent is critical to maintain progress, so don’t neglect this part of your care during travel.
- Bring Your Case: Always store your aligners in their case when you’re not wearing them to avoid losing or damaging them.
- Pack the Next Tray: If you’re nearing the end of a set, pack the next aligners in your series to switch on your scheduled date.
- Stick to a Cleaning Routine: Use your cleaning kit (or a toothbrush and clear soap) to keep your aligners free of bacteria.
- Have a Backup Plan: Ask our dentist in Dunedin for instructions on what to do in case you lose your aligners during the trip.
General Dental Holiday Travel Tips
While traveling with specific dental devices requires preparation, good dental habits should remain a priority regardless of where you are. These tips will help you maintain overall oral health on the go:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking water frequently not only benefits your health but also prevents dry mouth and helps rinse away sugars and food particles.
- Pack a Travel Kit: Include a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and travel-sized mouthwash in your luggage to follow your regular oral hygiene routine.
- Schedule Ahead: If you suspect any dental concerns, schedule an appointment with our dentist in Dunedin before you travel to avoid emergencies while you’re away.
- Be Careful with Holiday Treats: Enjoy your favorite sweets in moderation, and try to limit sticky, sugary, or hard foods that can damage your teeth or devices.
Don’t Wait—Prepare for Your Holiday Travel Now!
Start this season on the right foot. Whether it’s preparing to pack your dental night guard, ensuring safe transport of your sleep apnea device, or double-checking you’ve packed your Invisalign case, good preparation makes all the difference.
Need help with adjustments or last-minute dental advice before you hit the road? Bayshore Family Dental is here to support you. Get in touch with our dentist in Dunedin for personalized advice, routine checkups, or assistance with your dental devices. We’re here to make your holiday travels as stress-free as possible. Nothing should keep you from sharing your brightest smile this season.
