Spring Break Survival Guide: Protecting Your Family’s Smiles

Spring Break is a time to relax, travel, and enjoy time with family—but it can also take a toll on your oral health. Whether you’re heading to the beach, hitting the slopes, or staying home, it’s important to keep your dental care on track. Here’s how to protect your smile while making the most of your break!

1. Pack Your Dental Essentials

Before you head out, make sure everyone in the family has their dental must-haves:
✔ Travel-sized toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
✔ Floss or floss picks for easy cleaning on the go
✔ Sugar-free gum to help freshen breath and stimulate saliva production
✔ A small bottle of mouthwash for extra protection

2. Choose Smile-Friendly Snacks

Vacation often means more snacking, but some foods can increase the risk of cavities. Stick to these healthier options:
✅ Cheese and yogurt – Rich in calcium and great for strengthening teeth
✅ Apples and carrots – Help clean teeth naturally while providing essential vitamins
✅ Nuts – A great source of protein that won’t stick to teeth like sugary snacks

❌ Avoid sticky candies, soda, and sports drinks, as they can lead to cavities and tooth decay.

3. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is one of the best things you can do for your teeth. It helps rinse away bacteria, neutralizes acids, and prevents dry mouth. If you’re traveling, opt for bottled water if tap water quality is uncertain.

4. Don’t Skip Brushing & Flossing

Even on vacation, make sure everyone sticks to their routine! Try setting a reminder on your phone if needed, especially if you have kids who may be too distracted by fun activities.

5. Be Prepared for Dental Emergencies

Accidents can happen, especially if you’re traveling. Here’s what to do in case of a dental emergency:
🦷 Chipped or cracked tooth? Rinse with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. See a dentist as soon as possible.
🦷 Lost tooth? Place it in milk or saliva and seek emergency dental care immediately.
🦷 Toothache? Rinse with warm salt water and take over-the-counter pain relief if needed.

Spring Break is all about fun—don’t let dental problems ruin it! Schedule a pre-trip checkup at Sun Dental Lethbridge to ensure your smile is vacation-ready.