Whether you’re traveling abroad or just out-of-state, getting a change of scenery is definitely a fun way to enjoy summer vacation! What’s not so fun is having to deal with an unexpected dental emergency. In these situations, preparation and quick thinking are going to be your best friends. Keep reading for some smart traveling tips.
Ways You Can Prepare for Your Trip
The best way to avoid a dental emergency is to prepare as much as possible. Here’s what you should add to your to-do list:
- Visit your dentist for a checkup before you leave
- Keep up the oral hygiene routine, even while you travel
- Don’t forget to pack all your brushing essentials
- Bring your dental emergency kit, or grab cotton balls and pain relievers just in case
- Purchase a dental insurance plan that covers emergencies while traveling
- Research your destination for emergency dentists
The main point is to ensure you have everything you need to handle a dental emergency. However, if you find yourself in a pinch, you can still call your usual emergency dentist. They can help keep you calm and walk you through next step actions.
How to Handle a Mid-Air Toothache
Your ears aren’t the only thing affected by cabin pressure. Some restorations, like fillings, expand as air pressure fluctuates. This could cause a toothache, so make sure to bring pain relievers on the plane. If your discomfort continues well after you land, you might have another problem that could be worth getting checked by a dentist.
Immediate First Aid for a Damaged Tooth
For any sort of dental damage, you’ll need to see an emergency dentist as soon as possible. In the meantime, you’ll want to rinse your mouth to dislodge any dental fragments and press cloth or cotton balls to bloody cuts. To alleviate immediate pain, take a dose of your chosen pain relievers or apply a cold compress for swelling.
What to Do If Someone Loses a Tooth
For teeth that become completely dislodged, you should also make sure to rinse your mouth and staunch any bleeding. If you manage to find your lost tooth, pick it up gently by the crown, not the roots. You can rinse it briefly with tap water, but then you should keep it moist in a small pool of spit or milk if it’s available. It might sound strange, but this will make it easier for an emergency dentist to reinsert the tooth.
A dental emergency will definitely put a damper on your vacation – but it’s not the end of the world! With some careful planning and help from a local emergency dentist, you can get the care you need and go right back to enjoying your trip.
About the Practice
Dr. Patel and Dr. Gandhi are here for all your emergency dentistry needs! With their compassion and expert care, you’ll feel right at home – whether you’re a local or traveler. If you have a dental emergency or want help preparing your teeth for an upcoming trip, call their office at 215-643-5220. They’ll be happy to help! For a full list of services, visit their website.
