Tips for Maintaining Oral Hygiene During Your Summer Vacation

Posted June 6, 2023.

Summer vacations are a time to relax, explore new destinations and create lasting memories. While enjoying your break, it’s essential not to neglect your oral hygiene routine. Ignoring dental care during vacations can potentially lead to oral health issues, which can put a damper on your well-deserved time off. To help you protect your smile while you are away, we have compiled a list of useful reminders that can keep your smile on track!

Pack the Essentials

Before you embark on your summer adventure, ensure you pack all your oral hygiene essentials. Remember to bring a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and mouthwash. You can opt for travel-sized products or invest in a travel toothbrush with a protective case for convenience and cleanliness. Either way, your oral hygiene pack is a traveling essential! Bonus: your smile will look its best in person and pictures!

Stick to Your Routine

While vacations are a time to break away from your daily routine, it’s important to maintain consistency with your oral hygiene habits. You’ll still want to brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each session. Ensure you brush all surfaces of your teeth (and don’t forget your tongue)! Also, don’t skip flossing, as it actively clears out plaque and stray bits of food lingering between your pearly whites.

Stay Hydrated

Hot summer temperatures, coupled with increased physical activities during your travel excursions, may lead to dehydration. Remember, it’s essential to down lots of water to stay optimally hydrated. Plain water not only helps maintain overall health but actively promotes saliva production, which you need to neutralize harmful acids and protect your teeth against decay.

Limit Sugary Drinks and Snacks

You can still enjoy festive treats while you are away. It can help to rinse your mouth with water wherever you go to help wash away some of the sugar and acids. Then be sure to brush and floss when you can to keep tooth decay and cavities away.

Carry Sugar-Free Gum

Chewing sugar-free gum is a great way to maintain good oral hygiene during your vacation. It helps stimulate saliva production, which aids in neutralizing acids and washing away bits of oral debris. Look for gum with the ADA (American Dental Association) seal of approval for added assurance.

Be Mindful of Travel Food Choices

When dining out during your vacation, make conscious food choices that are beneficial for your oral health. Opt for dishes that are less likely to get stuck in between your teeth or leave a sticky residue. Avoid hard candies and chewy snacks that can damage your teeth or lead to dental work complications.

Research Local Dental Care Options

In case of any dental emergencies or unexpected oral health concerns during your vacation, you will want to be prepared. Research and note local dental clinics or emergency dental services available in the area you’re visiting. Having this information readily available can save you stress and time if the need arises.

Schedule a Pre-Vacation Dental Check-up

If you can, get your teeth checked and cleaned before your vacation. We can address any underlying oral health issues and ensure your teeth and gums are in good shape to travel. We can also provide personalized recommendations for maintaining oral hygiene while you are away.

Enjoy Your Vacation and Stay Committed

Follow these simple guidelines and enjoy your time away, exploring new places and creating life-changing memories. Your smile will thrive, and you will look your best, especially in all those photos you will bring home you’ll want to display and share!

Eric Pena

I was referred to Dr. Castellini by a friend. If I could give this Doctor 100/100 Stars I would for three reasons: 1) His care was very person-centered 2) He is impressively knowledgeable but at the same time he explains things in a simple way 3) I was impressed by the cost of care. He also followed up and was very accessible to answer my questions even after my visits. This Doctor has my respect.

Nicole

After avoiding the dentist for years, I recently found myself in a situation that required immediate attention. I was seeking holistic care from a dentist that would at least attempt to save my tooth and I couldn’t be more grateful for Dr. Castellini’s patience, effort, and calm approach to my irrational fears. Not only did he take extra time to rebuild my tooth but he walked me through every step helping me to feel comfortable. His honesty and genuine concern shine through from the moment you step into his office. These types of experiences can often feel clinical and impersonal so finding a dentist who embodies kindness and empathy is truly a gift. I highly recommend him.

Mike Perry

I am immensely grateful for discovering Dr. Castellini. After a disappointing experience with a previous holistic dentist, Dr. Castellini's commitment to addressing my health concerns regarding amalgam fillings was truly exceptional. Within two days of my consultation, he scheduled the removal procedure, demonstrating a genuine prioritization of my needs without attempting to upsell additional services. His transparency in explaining the diagnosis, process, and pricing was commendable. Despite a last-minute consultation squeezed between other patients, he expressed gratitude for my hour-and-a-half drive to see him. Dr. Castellini's unexpected follow-up call later that day showcased his dedication to ensuring all my questions were answered. Throughout the process, his empathy and willingness to accommodate requests made the experience remarkable. Despite my allergy to Novacain, he used a less potent anesthetic, resulting in minimal pain during the procedure, a testament to his skill and gentleness with the drill. He even allocated extra time to ensure a meticulous and pain-free process. Post-removal, I experienced minimal discomfort, and Dr. Castellini went above and beyond by promptly addressing a last-minute request to fix small chips on my teeth during the same visit. In retrospect, my nerves were unwarranted; Dr. Castellini is truly top-tier, the epitome of excellence in dental care. I unequivocally trust him for all future dental work. An extraordinary experience with a dentist who goes above and beyond – Dr. Castellini is, without a doubt, the GOAT in dentistry.

D T

Dr. Castellini and team are great! They really empower you with information every step of the way. I got two fillings and it was the best experience it could possibly be. His care was focused and slow in a good way and he explained each step of the process which I really appreciated. This will be my dentist of choice for the foreseeable future!

Melissa Robinson

This was by far the best dental appointment experience I’ve ever had. All of the staff were very warm and welcoming and Dr. Castellini was so gentle. I would recommend him a thousand times.

kennedy chase

I 100% recommend MedPlex Dental Holistic Dentistry. As someone who recently relocated to Florida and was seeking a holistic dentist, I am thrilled that I tried this office first. Dr Castellini's gentle and holistic-minded approach truly sets him apart, and his work is excellent. I look forward to my next appointment. Thank you, Dr Castellini and staff!

TenTen J.

Came to this office for a second opinion after being told I would need four fillings and a possible crown by another dentist. Dr. Castellini is an honest dentist who truly is concerned for what is best for his patients. He is willing to take the time to explain and work within your budget and comfort level while providing the best care. Turns out I didn't need those fillings or crown. I was concerned with the cost because this is a holistic dental office that didn't accept my insurance but it was surprisingly reasonable. If certain procedures here are pricey it doesn't compare to the future cost of going to a less skilled and caring dentist. The whole office from the receptionist to the hygienist is friendly, helpful, and skilled at what they do. Overall great experience!

Elizabeth L

Excellent dentist!! I researched for a holistic dentist in the area because I wanted to have my amalgam removed and replaced safely. I was a little nervous because it was a large filling close to the root. Dr. Castellini and his assistant put me at ease and were very patient and gentle throughout the whole process. I felt no pain at all! Dr. Castellini took time to answer my question's and listen to my concerns. I also appreciated the quiet, calm atmosphere of this office- so different from my previous dentist! Highly recommend!

Jade Rivera

I had a great first experience at Medplex. I found them through Groupon and while searching for a holistic dentist in Orlando. I came from Greenberg Dental and was used to a big office, while this is a smaller, more intimate space. I am happy I went, as Dr. Castellini made me aware of issues that prevented me from much worse in the future! He was relaxed, patient, knowledgeable and took time to answer all my questions. He was personable and made conversation, which helped me to feel safer and relax. He was willing to work with me when I asked to try cavity removal without a numbing agent, he took his time and I felt little pain! He consistently narrated what he was doing, and checked in on how I was feeling through the process. I went in feeling very nervous, and left feeling very grateful.

Ben DeLuzio

Wonderful staff. Client’s health is of utmost importance.