5 Ways to Handle a Dental Emergency While Traveling

A dental emergency while traveling is an inconvenient nightmare. Imagine you have concluded a perfect vacation – probably a two-week stint in the tropics or travel documentary through Asia. You have planned every event and eager to set the sails for your adventure. But, one aspect you probably did not consider is the step you would take if, while you are basking in the euphoria of the amazing nightlife, you suddenly experience a stabbing pain in your jaw that would not go away with all the tequila shots you can manage.

Handling a dental emergency while traveling

Here are five ways to handle a dental emergency while traveling:

1. Go for a dental evaluation before traveling

Pay your dentist a visit before traveling. If you are worried about the condition of your teeth, such as unexpected teeth sensitivity to cold or hot things or pain in the oral cavity, you should have the dentist perform a dental evaluation. The symptoms you experience could be warnings of tooth decay or a crack, so it is better to have the dentist detect and treat any problems before you travel.

2. Request for a referral

While the dentist may not know any dentist where you are traveling to, they have the resources to help you locate a reputable oral care provider in that location. Ensure you request a dentist that can render emergency dental services and are easily accessible. Keeping a dental recommendation handy could make a remarkable difference to your vacation.

3. Complete dental procedures before traveling

You may have recently undergone root canal treatment, so do not go on vacation before completing the procedure. The changes in air pressure on the plane can cause you pain after a root canal procedure. You are also more vulnerable to infections, which makes it inadvisable to travel without completing a dental procedure.

4. Stay away from the hard items

Avoid hard food items while traveling. Foods such as hard candies, ice cubes or popcorn kernels can cause strain on the teeth. Hard food materials can cause chipped or cracked teeth. Try to resist the urge to indulge in the crunchy items to ensure you never require emergency dental services while traveling.

5. In the event of a dental emergency

Attempt to find the nearest emergency dental practice. This would be the perfect time to call the referral you got from your dentist. If you must use pain relievers or aspirin to reduce the pain, keep it away from the affected area as they may burn your gum tissues. If the tooth is removed from its socket, try to wash it with clean water. If you can, restore the tooth back to its position and keep it there until you receive dental attention.

The earlier the treatment, the better the chances of saving the tooth.

Final note

Simply preparing against a dental emergency is not enough to prevent an occurrence – sometimes accidents happen. If you do end up cracking or chipping a tooth, try to rinse your mouth with preferably a salty solution and place an ice pack on the area.

Request an appointment here: https://www.lilburnfamilydentistry.com or call Lilburn Family Dentistry at (770) 800-0178 for an appointment in our Lilburn office.

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