Most dentists recommend using an electric toothbrush to help combat plaque buildup and dental decay. Overall, the vibrations and efficiency of an electric brush tend to improve oral hygiene and prevent dental complications. However, traveling with an electric toothbrush can be a bit cumbersome. They’re often bigger and heavier than a manual brush, meaning you have to make more space for them in your luggage. Whether or not you need to bring your brush with you on summer vacations depends on a few different factors.
Length of Trip
How long you’re going to be away can greatly impact your decision. For shorter trips, usually up to a week, you can often get away with just using a manual brush. But if you’re going away for longer, it can be a good idea to bring your electric brush. If you frequently travel, even for short periods of time, you may want to consider investing in a secondary electric brush that’s just for travel. Having one already stored away in your travel kit can be a great way to ensure your oral hygiene is taken care of on the road.
Additional Oral Hygiene Equipment
An electric brush is, overall, more efficient at cleaning your teeth. This means it’s even more crucial to use an electric brush if you aren’t flossing or using a mouthwash. If you want to save room or weight by taking a manual toothbrush, it’s a good idea to bring additional oral hygiene products with you. Floss can help remove plaque at the gumline, and an antibacterial mouthwash could remove bacteria left behind after brushing.
Tips for Traveling with an Electric Toothbrush
If you are bringing your electric toothbrush with you, it’s crucial that you keep it clean and maintained. It’s often a good idea to pack a new toothbrush head before you leave and only open it at your destination. This can help prevent damage to the bristles while in transit.
Once you arrive at your vacation spot, you should find a permanent place for your brush to sit out during the day. If your brush isn’t properly ventilated, then it could lead to bacteria growth in the bristles. This means you may end up adding to the plaque buildup in your mouth rather than removing it when you brush.
Bring Both
Sometimes, having both an electric and a manual can be your best travel option. An electric toothbrush in your hotel or room can help prepare your teeth in the morning and clean them at night. And having a travel-size manual brush that fits in your pocket or bag can help freshen up during long excursions during the day.
Start With a Summer Cleaning
Starting out with a clean and healthy mouth can be the best way to help prevent decay or damage while traveling. At East Quarter Dental, we provide high-quality dental cleanings that aim to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Call us today at 469-529-5401 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how you can protect your teeth this summer.