DON’T LET CAVITIES CRASH YOUR ROAD TRIP HIT THE ROAD WITHOUT SKIPPING YOUR SMILE ROUTINE Summer road trips and vacations are all about making memories, but don’t let those memories include cavities or toothaches! When you’re packing your bags for that next big adventure, don’t forget to pack a few smile-saving essentials. It may be tempting to travel light, but your dental care should still be riding shotgun. STICK TO THE BASICS, EVEN ON THE ROAD. We get it, vacation is a break from routine! But your toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss deserve a place right next to your sunscreen and snacks. When you’re on vacation, you’re often eating more, indulging in sweet treats, or sipping on sugary drinks. That means your teeth are working overtime, and skipping steps in your oral hygiene routine can catch up fast. THINK SMALL BUT MIGHTY. Don’t skip important steps like rinsing with mouthwash just because the bottle’s too big. Grab a travel-sized version or pour your favorite rinse into a small travel-size bottle (just like you do for shampoo or face wash). Throw it in a zip-lock, and you’re good to go!
Few outdoor activities are more fun to do as a family than beating the heat in the water. A facility as simple as a community pool can offer fun for all ages, including wading, diving, and lap swimming. As summer gets underway, consider making plans to try more complex aquatic sports as a family. Here are four exciting options that will inspire the whole family to take the plunge. STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING This sport originated among Hawaiian surfers and began gaining momentum nationwide about a decade ago. Participants stand upright on a flat, buoyant board and propel themselves over lakes, rivers, and oceans with a single paddle. Paddleboards are bigger than surfboards and are stable enough to hold a picnic in a waterproof bag! SNORKELING Snorkeling is a great family activity for all ages if you’re vacationing near an ocean. Flippers, watertight goggles, and snorkels are easy to rent or buy. Exploring the wonders beneath the waves is as easy as floating on the surface and paddling your flippers. While any clear ocean waters can be fun to explore, consider trekking to Hawaii or Cozumel to see spectacular schools of fish and rock formations. CANOEING AND KAYAKING Few aquatic activities offer more opportunities for reflection and quiet conversation than paddling a canoe or kayak. These watercraft are usually available to rent near lakes and rivers, and, barring rough weather, navigating with them is relatively safe and easy. Pack a picnic, explore, and see what you can find along a river or lakeshore. WATERSKIING While this sport requires access to a speedboat and a skilled operator, arranging to try it can offer unforgettable thrills. Nothing can compare to the exhilaration as you first rise above the waves and stand on your skis; participants also get a full-body workout! Waterskiing poses a challenge for beginners when crossing the wake and keeping their legs beneath them, but the rewards are worth the effort! This summer, consider vacationing near a body of water to explore these aquatic activities or others, such as sailing or bodyboarding. You will create lasting memories and may ignite passions your kids will enjoy for years! Make a Splash! WATER FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
BUILD YOUR ON-THE-GO DENTAL KIT. These six items are the foundation of a good dental travel kit:
• Toothbrush (with a travel holder)
• Toothpaste • Dental floss
• Travel-size mouthwash • Reusable water bottle
Keeping your kit handy means you’re always prepared, whether you’re brushing at a rest stop or after indulging in an extra s’more.
STAY HYDRATED FOR A HEALTHIER MOUTH. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water, especially when it’s hot or you’re on the go. Water helps wash away food particles, keeps your mouth hydrated, and lessens the effects of sugary snacks or sodas. When traveling, it’s easy to reach for sodas or energy drinks, especially during long drives, but these beverages can harm your teeth. Opt for water whenever possible to keep your mouth refreshed and cavity-free. All it takes are a few simple steps and strategic packing to ensure your smile stays bright and healthy all summer long, no matter where your travels take you.
2 • WWW.ATOWNDENTAL.COM
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