The best toothpaste and floss for traveling depends on your individual needs and preferences. There are many factors you need to consider.
If you’re flying, you’ll need to stick to the 3-1-1 rule for liquids and gels, which means your toothpaste and floss container can’t be larger than 3.4 oz (100ml) to comply with TSA regulations.
Consider Your Options – Small Tube, Tablets or Powder
You can buy travel-sized tubes of toothpaste, or consider other options like toothpaste tablets or powder.
Toothpaste powder is a fine powder that you mix with water to create a paste. It’s lightweight and compact, but it can be messy to use and may not be as effective as other options.
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Whiten or Sensitive Teeth Contain Different Ingredients
If you have sensitive teeth, you’ll want to choose a toothpaste that’s formulated for sensitive teeth. These toothpastes typically contain ingredients that help to block the tiny channels in your teeth that can lead to pain.
If you want to whiten your teeth while you travel, there are toothpastes available that contain whitening agents. However, it’s important to note that these toothpastes may not be as effective as professional whitening treatments.
Toothpaste comes in a variety of flavors, so you can choose one that you enjoy. However, you may want to avoid strong flavors if you’re traveling to a country with different cultural norms.
Here are a few recommendations for different types of travelers:
- Best overall: Tom’s of Maine Natural Fluoride-Free Toothpaste. This toothpaste is available in a travel-size tube, is free of fluoride and SLS, and comes in a variety of flavors.
- Best for sensitive teeth: Sensodyne Rapid Relief Sensitive Toothpaste. This toothpaste is specially formulated to relieve sensitivity and comes in a travel-size tube.
- Best for whitening: Colgate Total Whitening Toothpaste. This toothpaste contains whitening agents and also provides protection against cavities, gingivitis, and bad breath.
- Best for eco-conscious travelers: Toothpaste tablets are solid and come in a reusable tin, which is great for reducing waste.
Best for budget travelers: Aquafresh Clean & Cool Travel Toothpaste. This is a basic toothpaste that comes in a travel-size tube and is affordable.
If you floss your teeth, here are a few options:
Floss Picks:
- Pros: Compact, convenient, no need for separate tools, often have a built-in toothpick for added cleaning.
- Cons: Might not be as effective as traditional floss for tight spaces, can be wasteful if you lose the pick after each use.
Recommendation: Oral-B Glide Floss Picks are popular and affordable, with a gentle, shred-resistant design.
Waxed Floss:
- Pros: Slides easily between teeth, good for those with tight spaces.
- Cons: Bulkier to carry, can shred or break easily, may not be as eco-friendly as other options.
- Recommendation: Oral-B Essential Floss is a classic choice, known for its smooth texture and durability.
- www.oralb.com.sg
OralB Essential Floss
Unwaxed Floss:
- Pros: More gentle on gums, may be easier to maneuver around tight teeth, eco-friendly option.
- Cons: Can be difficult to grip and control, may fray or break more easily.
- Recommendation: Cocofloss is a popular eco-friendly option made from natural coconut fibers.
Water Flosser:
- Pros: Effective cleaning, especially for those with implants or bridges, portable options available.
- Cons: Requires water and can be bulkier than other options, may not be ideal for all travel situations.
- Recommendation: The Waterpik Cordless Plus Water Flosser is a compact and rechargeable option for on-the-go flossing.
Floss Threaders:
- Pros: Effective for cleaning around braces or other dental work.
- Cons: Requires some dexterity to use, not as convenient as other options.
- Recommendation: Radius Floss Threaders are easy to use and come with a built-in cutter.
- www.amazon.com
Additional Tips:
- Consider TSA regulations for liquids and gels if you’re flying. Opt for travel-sized containers or floss picks.
- Choose a floss with a flavor you enjoy, especially if you won’t have mouthwash readily available.
- If you have sensitive gums, look for a floss specifically designed for gentle cleaning.
- Most importantly, choose a floss you’ll actually use consistently while traveling!
No matter which toothpaste or floss you choose, be sure to pack a travel-sized toothbrush and floss. And don’t forget to brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time!