Protecting Oral Health Care Supplies While Traveling

When traveling, remembering your oral health care supplies is only half the battle. You should also consider how to protect them in the process of traveling. If an item like your toothbrush isn’t protected, germs and bacteria can build up and cause more harm to your teeth and gums, jeopardizing oral health.

Also, when out on the road, your immune system can become fatigued, which increases your chances of getting sick. So, it’s especially important to make sure items for teeth and gums are not exposed to any more harmful bacteria.

There are ways to make traveling with these items a little easier. Here a few things to keep in mind while trying to maintain good oral health care on the road.

Storage

Try to keep items like your toothbrush and toothpaste in the same location. If you have a small compartment in your bag or suitcase that’s rarely used and free of debris, this is probably an ideal location. Even if you travel with a cap on the toothbrush, there’s still a chance it may fall off. If you have a tube of toothpaste, there’s a chance of it picking up debris around the cap, which can be problematic. Store the toothbrush in an upright position and give it time to dry before packing it up.

Time Stored

Moist areas are breeding grounds for germs and bacteria, which is why it’s best to try not to store your toothbrush in a travel container or cap for an extended period. Make a reminder to switch out supplies every three months, including your toothbrush and cap.

Over time, bristles can become frayed and worn out, decreasing a brush’s chance of cleaning effectively. Check your toothbrush often to make sure if it needs to be replaced. Children may need their brushes replaced more frequently than adults.

Separate Items

If possible, try to keep your toothbrush separate from other brushes. It is recommended that you allow your toothbrush time to dry before putting it away, so bacteria do not build up. Again, moist areas are breeding grounds for bad bacteria, so try to keep your brush apart from everyone else's to avoid getting each other sick through transfer.

Use Holders

Try to get in the habit of using holders and rinsing them like you do with a toothbrush. Using holders for both toothpaste and a toothbrush can help supplies dry faster. Also, try bringing a small towel, so that you always have a clean surface to rest them on. While traveling, this provides a little more consistency and helps you practice proper protection of oral health supplies.

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