It doesn’t matter if you’re at home, cruising down the interstate, or relaxing on the beach—a dental emergency can happen any time or any place, and they usually occur when you least expect them to! That said, what should you do if you experience one during summer vacation? Emergencies don’t discriminate and can easily derail your plans if you aren’t prepared. Keep reading to learn about five tips that can help you prevent and be ready for a dental emergency during summer vacation.
1. Schedule a Dental Visit Before Leaving
You should already be visiting your dentist twice a year for checkups and cleanings, so why not schedule one of your biannual visits before leaving for your vacation? This will allow your dentist to inspect your mouth and ensure that there aren’t any potential concerns before your departure. If there is something that needs attention, they can address it beforehand; and you’ll also have a larger window to schedule necessary follow-up appointments. Visiting your dentist beforehand will also give you more peace-of-mind concerning your trip; your oral health is one less thing you’ll have to worry about!
2. Prepare a Dental Emergency Kit
Take a page from the Boy Scout’s handbook and be prepared! This kit doesn’t need to be fancy or expensive, but you should at least try to include the following:
- A card with your dentist’s information including their name and emergency number.
- Gauze or a handkerchief.
- Saline solution.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Dental wax.
- A small container for displaced teeth.
3. Consider a Healthy Summertime Diet
Many classic summer staples and treats like sno-cones, popsicles, lemonade, and more are perfect for cooling off, but can be hazardous for your oral health. Excessively sugary or acidic foods and drinks can expedite the spread of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems. Skip the sodas and sweets and opt for healthier choices like fruits and vegetables, yogurts, cheeses, and more. Also drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and encourage the flow of saliva inside your mouth.
4. Practice Sports Safety
If you’re a fan of fun summertime sports and activities, you should wear the proper safety gear when participating. A mouth guard can provide a serious level of protection for your teeth and gums, during both contact and non-contact sports. Swimming pool accidents are also a very common cause of summertime dental emergencies—so be extra careful at the pool!
5. Monitor and Maintain Your Oral Health
Being on vacation does not mean taking a vacation from your personal hygiene! Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, and floss and use an antibacterial mouthwash. If you regularly clean and inspect your mouth, you can stay on top of any potential problems. If something seems off, contact your dentist promptly; inaction will only lead to further complications!
Summer vacation is meant to be enjoyed, but a dental emergency isn’t a very fun time! Follow these tips to ensure that your mouth is well-protected no matter where you’re headed this summer.
About the Practice
Advanced Smile Design serves patients and families in the Willow Grove area under the leadership of Dr. Krunal Patel and Dr. Poorvi Gandhi! Both Dr. Patel and Dr. Gandhi have several years of experience and expertise in many fields, and both also share a mutual passion for improving their patient’s lives through comfortable and comprehensive oral care. Their practice is proud to offer a wide range of available services including emergency dentistry. To schedule an appointment, please visit their website or call their office: (215) 659-3334.
