Summer vacation is supposed to be relaxing. We make plans for leisurely walks, ice cream stops, and photo opportunities, not dental emergencies. But if you find yourself facing an unexpected tooth crisis, your emergency dentist in Richardson can help you correct the problem so you can get back to enjoying your trip. Here are our tips to deal with tooth dilemmas when you’re out of town.
See Your Dentist Before You Leave
Prevention is your best option when it comes to avoiding a dental emergency. Make sure you schedule a visit with your dentist before you hit the road to ensure that your teeth are in mint condition. When caught early enough, tooth concerns like chips or decay can be corrected before they become a bigger problem.
You probably have a lot of scheduling to do before you leave for a big trip. Fit in a dentist appointment while you’re at it to save yourself a major headache later.
Come Prepared
Wait! Before you head out the door, double check your bag for dental essentials:
- Toothpaste
- Brush
- Floss
- Mouthwash
- Pain Killers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
Make sure you care for your mouth throughout your travels. Brush twice a day and floss once a day. Proper oral hygiene is always important, and vacation is no exception.
Watch What You Eat
Yeah, we know this isn’t what you want to hear when you’re on vacation. But if you have sensitive teeth or are concerned about potential dental problems, be cautious when eating hard foods that could crack or chip a tooth. Consider limiting these foods if you are concerned about possible damage.
Additionally, hot liquids like coffee or tea or other acidic beverages can exacerbate tooth sensitivity. Minimize your consumption of them to prevent unwanted tooth pain.
Know Where to Find Care
Do your research ahead of time to locate an emergency dentist in the area you’re visiting. You may even be able to ask your at-home dentist for recommendations. Make sure you have access to the address and contact information should the need arise to get in touch.
You may also want to double check your insurance to confirm what will be covered. If you’re travelling overseas, your provider may offer international coverage. It’s wise to figure this out ahead of time so you aren’t stuck with any surprise costs.
A dental emergency can be a stressful experience, especially when you’re somewhere unfamiliar. But with a bit of planning, you can rest easy knowing you’re prepared for any upsets during your summer vacation.
About the Author
Dr. Shwarts was born and raised in the Dallas area and is dedicated to transforming smiles in his community. He graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with his undergraduate degree before pursuing his doctorate at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. Additionally, he completed further education in sleep apnea therapy and dental education. If you have any questions or concerns about your teeth before you head out for vacation, visit his website or give him a call at (972)437-6035.