Summer is here, which means it’s a great time to take a vacation to get a break from your daily responsibilities. As you book your hotel and prepare your baggage, don’t forget to visit your dentist. The last thing you want is a dental emergency interrupting your vacation. Although you may never expect it to happen to you, 1 in 6 Americans has a dental emergency every year. While there’s never a good time to have one, if it occurs when you’re away from home, it can make a stressful situation much worse and ruin your trip. Thankfully, you can safeguard your smile by visiting your dentist before you leave.
Reduce Your Risk of Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies can result from trauma, but they are often caused by untreated oral health issues, like cavities. A cleaning and checkup will ensure there aren’t any concerns hiding in your mouth that can turn into a big problem while you’re away. If your dentist finds anything concerning, you can have it treated before you depart for peace of mind during your vacation.
Look and Feel Your Best
Your dental hygienist will also clean your teeth to remove any buildup that can lead to cavities or gum disease. Your mouth will be clean and healthy, so you can smile confidently for your vacation photos.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
Even with a trip to your dentist, accidents can happen. You can protect your smile and reduce your risk by keeping a few tips in mind:
- Don’t Forget to Brush and Floss: Don’t deviate from your usual oral hygiene routine. Commit to brushing at least twice daily and flossing once a day. If you’re snacking more often, brush after every meal. A travel oral hygiene kit can make it easier to brush and floss while on the go.
- Watch What You Eat: Avoid hard or crunchy foods because they can increase your risk of a fractured tooth or damaged restoration.
- Stop Any Bad Oral Habits: Stop any habits that can damage your teeth, like using them to loosen bottle lids or to tear open a chip bag at the airport.
- Wear a Mouthguard: Wear an athletic mouthguard if you play sports.
A little preparation will go a long way. Although you’re busy finalizing the details of your trip, schedule a cleaning and checkup with your dentist.
About Dr. Gabriel A. Nossa
Dr. Nossa earned his dental degree from the University of Florida and has completed Advanced Education in General Dentistry. He regularly continues his education in various specialties to treat the most complex oral health issues. Whether you need a dental checkup or an emergency dentist, request an appointment through our website or call (352) 745-3765.