Whether you travel for business or pleasure, you want your trip to go smoothly. Nothing can ruin time away from home more than having to deal with a dental problem. Taking great care of your teeth and gums daily is important in making sure your oral health is in tip top shape, but being prepared for a problem while traveling is just good sense. If you haven’t been to the dentist in recent months, a visit before your trip to have your teeth cleaned and a dental exam performed should be on your pre-travel checklist.
Prevention
The proverb that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure is appropriate here. Brushing and flossing every day coupled with regular dental visits are excellent ways to help prevent problems associated with gum disease and dental decay.
But even the most diligent person can be surprised by a toothache or experience some type of dental trauma when away from home.
Preparation
Knowing how to handle any emergency involves being prepared. Some helpful tips include:
Pack your dentist’s contact information. In the event you experience a dental problem, make a call to your own dentist right away. Very often a temporary solution can be provided over the phone; a follow up visit when you return home may be needed. If more help is required, your own dentist may be a good source in helping you find a dentist locally.
Another option is to reach out to a friend or family member to recommend a dentist. If you don’t know anyone, the local chamber of commerce is a good source of information. Traveling abroad? A call to your local consulate is a great lifeline to whatever you need.
Finally, don’t use vacation time as an excuse to bypass taking care of your teeth. It only takes a few minutes a day to brush and floss. Forgot to pack a toothbrush? Unless you are backpacking in the wilderness, you probably have access to a store of some kind where you can buy a replacement toothbrush. Absent that, toothpaste on a clean finger provides a good temporary substitute.
Hopefully, all will go well on your time away and you do not have to deal with a dental emergency. Great daily oral care aids in prevention, and being prepared to handle any situation gives you the power to control the outcome.
For additional tips or to schedule and appointment, contact our office today.
