Braces versus Retainers: A Comprehensive Overveiw

Keeping Kids' Teeth Clean While on the Road: Tips for Avoiding Emergency Dental Work and Encouraging Kids to Brush

19 February 2015 by Lonnie Bryant

Helping your child to maintain healthy oral hygiene can be difficult even in the best of circumstances, but if you are on the road, it can be even more challenging. To help your child with his or her oral hygiene whether you are in a hotel, a tent, or at home, you may need to get creative. Here are five ideas you should keep in mind:

1. Book Emergency Dental Work Before Leaving

If your child has sore gums or a cavity you have been putting off treating, make sure to take care of it before you leave. You don't want to be stuck on the road with a child who is in pain, and you don't want to have to waste half of your holiday searching for an emergency dentist if the issue gets worse. If you are taking a long trip, schedule a cleaning and a check-up before you go to help avoid dental issues on the road.

2. Invest in a Personal Brushing Travel Kit

Like all people, kids love to feel special, and sometimes, small things like a personal brushing kit can create those feelings. Give your child a new travel toothbrush, a mini bottle of toothpaste and a fun bag to hold it all in. This special treat will make the whole idea of brushing more exciting, regardless of the environment. Make sure that the brush has a cover to protect it from bacteria.

3. Stick to Your Daily Routine

Vacation is the perfect chance to take a break from the challenges of regular life, but for kids who love routine, the shifts can be overwhelming. If your child stays up too late, for example, he or she may feel too exhausted or too emotional to brush at the end of the day. If possible, try to stick with your regular routine to a certain extent. That will help you avoid super exhausted kids who do not want to brush.

4. Use Brushing Substitutes as Needed

Although sticking with a schedule can be helpful, you also need to be flexible if you want to enjoy your holiday. To that end, bring xylitol gum and let your child use it as a brushing substitute after meals. If you are camping out in nature with no bathrooms or sinks, make your own using a bottle of water and a bowl. Regardless of the nature of the substitutes you have to embrace, try to make the experience positive for your kids.

For more information, check out companies such as Buderim Marketplace Dental.

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