Holiday travel shouldn't mean you should take a vacation from your dental health. Conversely, the change in routine and diet mean it's even more crucial to be diligent in maintaining a healthy smile.  

To gear up for the sure-to-be- treat-filled days ahead, our experts here at Belle Meade Family Dentistry in Nashville are sharing how to have a healthy holiday smile in 5 steps:

Step 1: Put together a dental kit

It’s easy to spot travel-sized items in stores, so putting together a mini dental kit is an easy way to encourage healthy habits while on the road. Pack a travel-sized mouthwash, floss and toothbrush for everyone in the family and let the kids pick out a special brush to encourage use.

Step 2: Protect your toothbrush

Keep your toothbrush clean by putting it an antibacterial cover when you travel. Being tucked inside luggage or in a hotel bathroom can allow bacteria to go from your brush to your mouth. And don’t forget to let your toothbrush dry before putting on the cover to avoid creating a bacteria breeding ground.

Step 3: Watch the foods you consume

We all consume more sugary beverages and desserts during the holidays. Instead of hitting up the cookie table for seconds, visit the veggie tray instead and be sure to wash away any extra food particles with water to avoid a cavity-filled start to the New Year.

Step 4: Set a routine

Don’t dismiss your regular dental habits during the holidays. It can be tempting to crash on the couch after a long day, but forgetting your oral health routine could mean dental problems in 2015. Make brushing and flossing a priority, no matter how late it is.

Step 5: Visit us before year-end

Don’t put off much-needed visits until after the holidays. Staying consistent with cleanings will prevent dental issues from ruining your time away. Additionally, don’t forget about those flex benefits! Many plans require you to spend unused funds before year-end, so get those appointments in if possible.

We wish you all a wonderful holiday full of SMILES and memories to last a lifetime.

For more information or to make an appointment, call Nashville’s own Belle Meade Family Dentistry at (615) 298-2030.  You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter.