Long journeys, whether by car, plane, bus, or train, can be tiring and uncomfortable. One common problem many people face during these trips is bad breath. Keeping your breath fresh is important not only for your comfort but also for the comfort of those around you. Fresh breath can make your long journey much more pleasant. With a little preparation and attention to your oral hygiene, you can keep your breath fresh no matter how long your journey is.
Brush and Floss Before You Leave
The best way to start a long journey is with a clean mouth. Before you leave, make sure you brush your teeth thoroughly. Don’t forget to floss, too. Flossing removes food particles stuck between your teeth, which can cause bad breath if left there. Using a toothbrush with a small head can help you reach all parts of your mouth.
Pack Travel-Sized Dental Supplies
It’s a good idea to bring a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss with you on your journey. These items don’t take up much space and can be very handy if you need to freshen up during a stop or layover. Brushing your teeth after meals can help keep your breath fresh.
Chew Sugar-Free Gum
Chewing sugar-free gum is a great way to keep your breath fresh during a long journey. Chewing gum increases saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria in your mouth. Make sure to choose sugar-free gum to avoid tooth decay. Mint-flavored gum can also provide a pleasant smell.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking water is essential for fresh breath. A dry mouth can cause bad breath because there isn’t enough saliva to wash away food particles and bacteria. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout your journey. Avoid drinks that can dry out your mouth, such as coffee and alcohol. If you do drink these, follow them up with water.
Use Breath Mints or Fresheners
Breath mints or freshening strips can provide a quick fix for bad breath. They are small, easy to carry, and can freshen your breath instantly. Choose sugar-free options to avoid harming your teeth. Remember, though, that these are temporary solutions and should be used in addition to other methods like brushing and chewing gum.
Keep Your Mouth Moist
Besides drinking water, there are other ways to keep your mouth moist. Sucking on sugar-free candies can stimulate saliva production and help keep your mouth from drying out. Moisturizing mouth sprays are also available and can be useful during a long trip.
Use a Tongue Scraper
A lot of bacteria that cause bad breath can build up on your tongue. Using a tongue scraper can help remove these bacteria. Some toothbrushes come with a built-in tongue scraper on the back of the brush head. If yours doesn’t, you can buy a separate tongue scraper at most drugstores.
Frequently Asked Questions
We have answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about bad breath.
What are the best sugar-free gum or mint ingredients to look for when buying for travel?
Look for xylitol as a main ingredient. It helps fight cavity-causing bacteria and boosts saliva production. Sorbitol is another sugar-free option, but xylitol offers added oral health benefits. Avoid anything with artificial sugars like aspartame if you’re sensitive. Always choose products labeled “sugar-free” to prevent plaque buildup.
Can poor digestion or motion sickness contribute to bad breath while traveling?
Poor digestion and motion sickness can definitely contribute to bad breath while traveling. Motion sickness often causes acid reflux or nausea, which brings stomach acids into your mouth and creates unpleasant odors. Digestive issues get worse during travel due to irregular eating patterns and unfamiliar foods. Staying hydrated helps combat this type of bad breath and maintain regular oral hygiene, even while on the road.
Do certain medications contribute to dry mouth and bad breath on trips?
Yes, many common medications like antihistamines, decongestants, and anxiety meds can reduce saliva flow. Less saliva means bacteria can grow more easily, which often leads to bad breath. If you’re traveling with these meds, drink more water and consider sugar-free mints with xylitol to stay fresh.
How can I manage bad breath if I wear braces or aligners while traveling?
Keep a travel-sized toothbrush, floss threaders, interdental brushes, and mouthwash with you. Clean your teeth and appliances after meals whenever possible. If brushing isn’t an option, rinse with water and chew sugar-free gum to help dislodge food. Staying consistent with your routine makes a big difference.
How do I keep my breath fresh if I cannot brush for several hours?
Rinse your mouth with water often and drink plenty of fluids to keep your mouth moist. Chew sugar-free gum or suck on xylitol mints to boost saliva and neutralize odors. Avoid strong-smelling foods like onions, garlic, or coffee if brushing isn’t an option. Once you can brush, do it thoroughly.
What’s the best way to store a travel toothbrush to keep it clean during a trip?
Use a vented travel case that allows the brush to dry between uses. Avoid airtight containers since moisture can trap bacteria. Let your toothbrush air dry entirely whenever possible, especially after brushing. Replace the case often if it gets dirty.