Summer has officially arrived, meaning it’s time to start preparing for your dream vacation! Some people like to plan every detail, from the list of attractions to visit to which outfits will be worn. Unfortunately, dental emergencies are often forgotten about during these preparations – and all it takes is one toothache or mouth injury to ruin your fun. Here are a few ways you can prevent a dental emergency from derailing your plans.
Pack an Oral Hygiene Travel Kit
Most people deem summer as the perfect opportunity to take a break from the daily grind. While it’s easy to stray away from your dental care routine, doing so can put your smile at risk. The best way to stay on track during vacation is by stashing an oral hygiene kit in your bag that contains a travel-sized toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and floss. Having your essentials within arm’s reach will make it easier for you to keep your teeth plaque- and bacteria-free while on the go!
Stock Up on Healthy Snacks
Tooth decay can be a real risk after a summer of eating too many sugary, starchy, or acidic foods. Keep your smile safe by stocking up on healthy snacks, such as apples, berries, carrots, celery, nuts, cheese, and plain yogurt. Instead of cookies and chips, munch on these nutritious foods during long car rides and flights to keep your mouth (and belly) happy!
Drink Plenty of Water
While relaxing on the shore of an exotic beach, it can be tempting to cool down with alcoholic or sugary beverages. Unfortunately, overconsumption of these drinks can damage your enamel and cause tooth decay. But don’t worry – you can still enjoy them in moderation! Just make sure to increase your water intake to keep your teeth clean, wash away harmful bacteria, and stimulate healthy saliva production.
Schedule a Checkup Before Departure
The last thing you want is a toothache or jaw pain to put a wrench in your vacation. Avoid these mishaps by scheduling a dental checkup before departing for a lengthy trip. Your dentist will perform a thorough oral evaluation to prevent, detect, or treat any issues that can become a complication while away from home. Having any dental concerns addressed before traveling will ensure your mouth is healthy and ready for a fun trip!
Prepare a Dental Emergency Kit
Sometimes, an accident may still occur despite following every safety measure in the book. Be prepared to handle these incidents by packing a dental emergency kit that includes:
- Your dentist’s office and emergency phone number
- Gauze
- A clean handkerchief
- A sealable container
- Saline solution
Don’t let a dental emergency ruin your much-needed time off. Taking proper precautions will ensure you enjoy your vacation with a beautiful, healthy smile!
About the Practice
At Devonshire Dental Associates, we aim to provide high-quality, personalized, and compassionate dental care to every patient that walks through our door. Our team has several specialists and dedicated staff who all have your best interests at heart. We understand dental emergencies can happen in the blink of an eye, even during summer vacation. If you’re in the midst of an urgent situation, visit our website or call (617) 350-7474 for immediate care.