Going on holiday is a chance to switch off, try new things, and step away from your usual routine. Between early flights, long days out and the odd late night, it’s easy for everyday habits to slip, and that includes looking after your teeth. A bit of planning and a few small adjustments can make all the difference, helping you avoid any unwanted dental problems while you’re away. Here are our tips for a trouble-free, well-deserved break.
It sounds simple, but making sure that you actually pack what you need is half the battle. Toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and something to clean between your teeth; whether that’s floss or interdental brushes, should all be on your list.
If you have ever arrived somewhere and realised you have forgotten your toothbrush, you’ll know it’s not ideal. Being tired can make not being bothered to find a late night shop and skipping cleaning instead.
Holidays tend to throw off your usual schedule. You might be up earlier than normal for excursions or out much later in the evening. Even so, it’s essential that you stick to the routine of brushing twice a day.
The night-time brush is the one people are most likely to skip, particularly after a long day. Taking a couple of minutes before bed, even when you’re tired, helps to prevent problems building up while you sleep.
Some people find it helps to keep their toothbrush somewhere obvious, such as next to the sink rather than packed away in a bag.
Food and drink are a big part of most trips. Whether it’s ice cream on the beach, sugary cocktails, or just eating out more often, your teeth are likely to be exposed to more sugar than usual.
It’s not about avoiding treats altogether; holidays are meant to be enjoyed, but frequency matters. Snacking throughout the day can be harder on your teeth than having something sweet with a meal. If you can, try to keep sugary foods and drinks to mealtimes and drink water in between.
Fizzy drinks and fruit juices can also be quite acidic. If you’re having them regularly, it’s a good idea not to brush your teeth straight afterwards. Giving it half an hour helps protect the enamel.
When you’re in a warmer climate, you’ll naturally drink more, but it’s still worth being mindful of it. Water helps wash away bits of food and keeps your mouth from becoming too dry.
A dry mouth can increase the risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease as sugars and bacterias are not washed away as efficiently, so staying hydrated is helpful for more than just comfort. If you are somewhere where tap water may be poor quality, make sure to use bottled water for brushing as well as drinking.
If your holiday includes anything active such as cycling, hiking, water sports, it’s worth thinking about your teeth as well as the rest of you. Accidents are rare, but they do happen.
If you already have a mouthguard for sports, make sure to bring it along. The same goes for a night guard if you grind your teeth. Changes in environment, different beds, or even just being out of routine can sometimes make grinding worse without you realising.
Toothache on holiday is something most people would rather avoid. If you notice pain, swelling, or unusual sensitivity, it’s best not to ignore it and hope it goes away.
Simple pain relief might help in the short term, but if something doesn’t settle, you should contact our Croydon dental clinic for advice on whether to seek local treatment or wait and see a Smile Dental Practice dentist upon your return. Before you travel, having a routine check-up can reduce the chances of anything flaring up while you’re away.
Long journeys and busy days out don’t always leave much room for brushing. Sugar-free chewing gum can be a useful stopgap, as it encourages saliva and helps to clear food debris.
Travel toothbrushes or small dental kits are easy enough to carry and can be useful on flights or day trips. Even a quick brush can make you feel a lot fresher.
Where you keep your toothbrush in a hotel or shared bathroom does matter. Try to let it air dry rather than sealing it in a container straight away, especially if it’s still damp.
If you are sharing a space, keep it separate from other people’s things. A simple case can help, but it’s best if it allows some airflow. We hope that these little tips help when you are planning your holiday. If you would like a check up before you go, you can contact for an appointment at the Smile Dental Practice Croydon on 020 8649 7911.
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