Tooth decay in baby teeth doesn’t hurt. It’s present on the surface of the enamel. If it isn’t treated, it spreads deeper—into the dentin and all the way to the pulp. And that’s when it becomes painful. Not many of us think about prevention, which is, according to dental professionals, the mistake. Not only during the vacation season. “A visit to the dentist doesn’t have to be unpleasant. If a person takes proper care of their oral health and regularly attends preventive check-ups, there’s nothing to worry about. During the check-up, we focus on the overall health of the oral cavity. We monitor not only the risk of tooth decay, but also the condition of the gums, soft tissues, and tooth roots. If these are revealed, they can cause problems during the vacation, too,”<\/t1> says MUDr. Valéria Michnová from the ArtDentistic dental clinic in Bratislava.
A visit to the dentist, or undergoing dental hygiene, doesn’t end with preparing for vacation. Attention should also be paid after the hot summer days. “It’s a period when we consume more foods and drinks that can affect the condition of tooth enamel. They weaken it—lemonades, fresh juices, or popular smoothies. Ideally, after consuming them, we rinse our mouth with clean water to neutralize the acidic environment,”<\/t1> continues the dentist.
Room for the toothbrush
According to dental professional Valéria Michnová, we shouldn’t forget about tools for thorough oral hygiene, either. “Besides a quality toothbrush, there should also be room in your case for interdental brushes, dental floss, a tongue scraper, and mouthwash.”<\/t1> Ideally, the mouthwash should be fluoridated. Xylitol-based chewing gums are also suitable, or those without sugar. And, of course, a sufficient drinking routine. Dry mouth is, after all, an ideal environment for the reproduction of dangerous bacteria. And those don’t belong on vacation—or in your mouth.
