Healthy Smiles All Summer: Avoiding Dental Emergencies While Traveling

Summer vacation is the perfect time to relax, explore new places, and create lasting memories. With all your plans for travel in place; airfare, hotel, and resorts, the last thing you want is a dental emergency to disrupt everything. If you’re diligent and want to prevent dental emergencies before they start, continue reading. You’ll find some expert tips to help you prevent dental issues and keep your smile healthy while you enjoy your summer travels.

1. Schedule a Pre-Vacation Checkup

Before you head out on your summer adventure, schedule a dental checkup. This allows your dentist to find and address any potential issues, like cavities, loose fillings, and tartar buildup before they can turn into emergencies. A clean bill of dental health will give you peace of mind as you travel. So, feel free to enjoy all the summer cuisine your stomach has room for!

2. Pack a Dental Emergency Kit

Be prepared by packing a dental emergency kit that includes items such as:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• Dental floss
• Temporary dental filling material
• Cotton swabs
• Gauze
• A small container to store a knocked-out tooth
• Names and numbers of potential dentists in the area

Having these items on hand can help you manage minor dental issues until you can see a dentist near your destination.

3. Continue Your Oral Care Routine

Sticking to your oral hygiene routine is essential, even on vacation. While it can be tempting to relax your schedule, you should keep it up! Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and use mouthwash if possible. Carrying travel-sized dental products and staying organized will make it much easier to keep your routine on the go. 

4. Pay Attention to Your Diet

Vacation often means indulging in exotic foods and drinks. While it’s okay to treat yourself, be mindful of what you take in. Try to avoid biting into hard candies, ice, and other foods that can crack or chip your teeth. It’s also a good idea to drink water after indulging in sweetened drinks like cocktails or soda that create cavities.

5. Invest In Protection for Your Teeth

If your summer plans include sports or adventurous activities, protect your teeth with a mouthguard. Whether you’re playing beach volleyball, biking, or doing other physical activities, a mouthguard can prevent dental injuries from impacts or falls.

By taking these preventive measures, you can enjoy your summer vacation without worrying about dental emergencies. With a little preparation and mindfulness, you’ll keep your teeth healthy and your smile bright, making your vacation truly special this year!

About the Practice

If you’re ready for summer fun, but don’t want to be caught by dental emergencies, Stec and Stines Cosmetic and Family Dentistry can help. Our team of dedicated dental experts can provide fast and effective treatment to prevent surprise dental visits. Call (308) 382-4440 to schedule a checkup and cleaning at our office. You can also visit our website to explore a full menu of all the treatments and services we provide.