One of the best tips for avoiding a dental emergency is to be prepared. Especially if you’re dealing with some tooth pain before you depart, it’s best to practice a few precautions for your trip:
- Go in for a checkup: If you have a history of gum disease or cavities, go in for a cleaning and let your dentist know you’re leaving for a trip soon. The dentist can look for signs of problems you’ll need to monitor while traveling and give you tips for how you can care for your teeth and respond to an emergency. It’s recommended to undergo any necessary serious procedures, such as a root canal, well before you leave the country.
- Get some dental insurance: Many insurance policies don’t provide coverage overseas. An additional temporary dental plan may be needed to protect you while traveling.
- Travel prepared: Travel with all you need to practice good oral health while you’re away from your dentist. If you’ve been struggling with pain, in addition to seeing your dentist before you leave, travel with over-the-counter painkillers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Also travel with plenty of toiletries, including toothpaste, toothbrushes, floss, and mouthwash, to care for your mouth while you travel.
- Mind your diet: You can decrease your likelihood of an emergency by minding your oral habits overseas. For example, you should avoid chewing on hard candies and similar foods that could cause a crack or chip. If you’ve been dealing with sensitivity, abstain from coffee, tea, and other acidic beverages while traveling to avoid aggravating the problem and needing to visit a dentist abroad.
A dental emergency is a scary experience — especially while traveling. But with some initiative and planning, you can care for your teeth before you leave and know how to respond should a disaster strike. Schedule a checkup before you depart, and ask your dentist about other oral health tips to follow on your journey.
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