Your bags are packed, your plane tickets are purchased, and your hotel is booked: vacation here you come! But what happens if the unexpected occurs while you’re away? Don’t let a dental emergency ruin your travel plans. Here’s what you should do to protect yourself from an oral health disaster on your summer adventure!
Before You Go…
While you’re probably eager to hit the road and get some well-deserved R&R, don’t rush out the door just yet. Be sure to schedule your semi-annual dental exam before you take off. That way you can get a clean bill of health or necessary repairs prior to your vacation. You’ll look better, feel better, and greatly reduce your risk of needing an emergency procedure while you’re away.
Know The Numbers
Whether you’re traveling domestically or abroad, be sure to save any important numbers in your phone before you go, such as those for your emergency contacts, your dentist and doctor, and if you will be traveling abroad, the number of the local embassy or consulate. This way should a dental emergency arise, you can easily get a referral to a reputable dentist or emergency room.
Check Your Coverage
Your dental insurance may not protect you if you are out of the country, so be sure to review your plan before you leave. If it does not, you may want to purchase a travel dental insurance policy to provide temporary coverage while you are away.
How To Prevent Dental Emergencies
While it’s impossible to prevent every dental emergency from occurring, there are still ways to reduce your risk:
- Be sure to pack your oral hygiene products, including your toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, and any oral appliances and cleansers you may need.
- Continue to wear your bite guard, sports guard, or retainer as prescribed by your dentist.
- When in doubt, don’t drink the local water; drink and brush your teeth with bottled water, and try to avoid opening your mouth while swimming or showering.
- Avoid foods that could damage your teeth, especially very crunchy or sticky foods.
This summer don’t let a dental emergency ruin your vacation. Follow these tips to prevent a crisis and protect your oral health from the unexpected.
About Our Practice
At Washington Dental Care, our team strives to provide each of our patients with personalized, compassionate care. We want to get to know you and help you achieve all of your oral health goals, whether you need a semi-annual exam, a cosmetic procedure, dental implants, or if you have a dental emergency.
To schedule an urgent appointment, please visit our website or call us at 312-766-5412.
