With summer just around the corner, you are beyond excited to enjoy your travel plans! Maybe you’re visiting family or going to a completely foreign place for vacation. Regardless of the specifics, you’ll be away from home and away from the resources you usually use and are familiar with.
While you certainly should look forward to the wonderful experiences you’ll have on your trip, you need to be thinking about what you’ll do if some bad scenarios happen. For instance, what should you do if you encounter a dental emergency? Here’s some guidance for dealing with these special circumstances.
Handling an Emergency Situation Away from Home
You never know when a dental emergency might occur, so here is some advice in case you experience one while you’re out having summer fun:
- Toothache: Some discomfort while flying is pretty normal with the air pressure changes. If the pain continues after you land, take over-the-counter pain medication, and keep in mind that you may need to see a local dentist.
- Broken or cracked tooth: This needs to be addressed right away. You can temporarily cover the tooth with sugar-free gum, but you must visit a dentist urgently.
Preparing for Your Summer Plans
Although you might be able to do a quick search for a local dentist in the moment, you might want to do the research before you arrive at your destination. You never know whether you’ll have good service, and you could be in severe pain. Take a few minutes prior to leaving your home to find potential dentists in the area you’ll stay. That way, you know where to turn for help when you need it most.
In addition, you can avoid some dental emergencies altogether by making sure you’re current with your dental checkups and cleanings with your regular dentist. This simple visit can ensure that any decay is caught and treated before you depart, giving you additional peace of mind.
While you’re out, make sure you have the supplies you need to take care of your smile. These products include a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, and pain reliever. Just remember that the bacteria in your mouth stay with you and don’t take a vacation, so you should continue to practice healthy oral hygiene even while you’re having fun away from home.
Ultimately, hopefully you won’t have to deal with a dental emergency away from home, but if you do, being prepared and planning ahead for this situation can help you get the care you need and get back to enjoying your trip sooner.
About the Author
Prior to having a private practice, Dr. Parris Kitt served in the navy for three years as a dental officer. Before then, he completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency. Over his more than 25 years as a dentist, he has studied with the Last Vegas Institute and been a member of the Academy of General Dentistry. If you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kitt, you can contact Kitt Dental in Flint online or by calling the office at 903-561-4477.