Preventing Dental Emergencies During Summer Vacation

Summer is here, which means your bags are packed and your hotel reservations are booked. As you anticipate your departure, you’re probably not expecting a dental emergency to ruin your travel plans. However, dental emergencies can occur with no warning and at any time. Although you can’t always stop them from happening, here are 5 tips to protect your smile while you’re away.

Preventing Dental Emergencies

Did you know that 1 in 6 Americans have a dental emergency annually? Not all result from accidents or trauma. Many are consequences of ignoring dental issues, like tooth decay. You can significantly reduce your risk of a dental emergency by following a few tips:

1. Schedule a Cleaning and Checkup

Visit your dentist for a cleaning and checkup to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy. Your dentist will look for anything concerning and can address it before you leave. You will smile confidently knowing your mouth is clean.

2. Commit to Your Oral Hygiene

It’s easy to deviate from your daily routines when you’re not at home, but don’t forget to brush and floss. Create a travel-sized oral hygiene kit to make it easier to maintain your smile while you’re on the go. Brush at least twice a day for 2 minutes each session. Brush after every meal if you’re snacking more often. Don’t forget to floss nightly and finish your routine with an antimicrobial mouthwash.

3. Watch What You Eat

Limit your consumption of sugary foods and drinks, which feed cavity-causing bacteria. It’s best to avoid any hard foods, like nuts, seeds, or shells, to prevent damaging a tooth. Moderate your alcohol consumption to prevent stains and dehydration. Choose nutritious foods and drink plenty of water to keep your mouth and body healthy.

4. Protect Your Smile

If you plan to partake in any activities that could result in a dental injury, wear an athletic mouthguard. It will protect your teeth and gums and can even reduce your risk of concussion. If you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, ask your dentist for a night guard to create a protective barrier between your upper and lower arches. If you’re heading to the pool, practice proper safety tips, like not running on wet surfaces.

5. Break Bad Oral Habits

Stop any bad habits that can damage your teeth, like chewing on your fingernails or inedible objects. Resist using your teeth as scissors and other tools.

Even with the right preparation, dental emergencies can still occur. It’s best to be prepared for the unexpected by having the phone number of an emergency dentist in the area you’ll be traveling.

About Dr. Zack Walker

Dr. Walker earned his dental degree from the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry and has completed additional education in general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and oral surgery. He holds memberships with many professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Request an appointment through our website or call (336) 564-6584.