When you are about to go on holiday there is a long list of things you need to check including your passport being up to date, and your dollars exchanged for the local currency, but how many of you would add having a check-up at the dentist to your checklist? Your dentists might not be at the forefront of your mind before going on holiday, but if you want to avoid a dental emergency whilst you are away, then they should be.
A dental emergency can happen unexpectedly, and at any time (that is why they are called emergencies), and unless you want it to spoil your holiday, everything you can do before you travel, to either avoid it or to mitigate its effect, should be done. If you are unsure what needs to be done or how you can help avoid dental emergencies whilst travelling on holiday, here are 5 tips you should follow.
#1 Make An Appointment For A Check-Up With Your Dentist
This is undoubtedly one of the best ways to avoid a dental emergency whilst on holiday. Whilst your dentist cannot stop you banging your jaw on an open door, or breaking a tooth as you bite into a hard piece of food, they can spot other potential issues. If they see a cavity, they can fill it, if there is a loose filling, they can repair it. Prevention is better than the cure, and that is certainly true here, so make that check-up appointment before you travel.
#2 Stick As Closely To Your Normal Dental Health Routine As Possible
Even if your holiday involves you camping in the wilderness, miles from the nearest town, it does not mean you cannot maintain healthy teeth and gums. Whether you are holidaying in a tent or a 5-star hotel, there should be no excuse for you to not brush and floss at your usual times and in the usual way.
#3 If You Play Sports On Holiday, Wear A Mouthguard
For those who love active and sporty holidays doubtless, you will be participating in some that carry risks of physical injury. These include some ball sports and activities such as tock climbing or horse riding, for example. For all of these, it is sensible that you wear the protective equipment issued and in addition a mouthguard to protect your teeth and gums. Forego looking cool for an hour or two by wearing a mouthguard, as it could save you from losing your front teeth.
#4 Take Your Own Sugar-Free Snacks With You
One of the delights of travelling is that you get to try local foods and drinks that you would not normally. By all means, enjoy them, but be wary also. Some foods may be especially tough to chew which can be risky and you are also not going to be aware of how much sugar is in them. This applies especially to snacks so if possible, take sugar-free snacks with you.
#5: Be Prepared
Follow The Scouts’ motto and be prepared for a dental emergency. You are not tempting fate if you make a note of local dentists in the location you are travelling to. You should also check both your travel and any medical insurance you have to ensure that they provide you adequate cover should you need to have emergency dental treatment whilst on holiday.