Don’t Let a Dental Emergency Ruin Your Summer Vacation

It’s that time of year again, when everyone can breathe a collective sigh of relief and hit the road for summer vacation. But don’t let your relaxing jaunt to the pool, adventure at the campground, or flight to paradise end on a sour note. Dental emergencies can happen at any time, but there’s still plenty you can do to reduce your risk of encountering one. Before you head out the door this summer, take a moment to read up on these tips for preventing dental emergencies.

Schedule Your Checkups First

While your family might prefer to use the days leading up to vacation packing their bags and anticipating all the fun they’re going to have, now is the perfect time to visit the dentist for semi-annual checkups. By ensuring that your family’s oral health is in great shape, you’ll have one less thing to worry about while you’re away. Plus, all those clean healthy teeth will look great in your photos!

Pack it Up

When it’s time to pack your bags for your summer adventure, don’t be left unprepared. Be sure to include oral health essentials, including:

• Toothbrushes
• Toothpaste
• Dental floss
• Your dentist’s phone number
• A small container
• Saline solution
• A handkerchief
• Gauze
• Ibuprofen
• Retainers, aligners, and bite guards (if applicable)
• Soaks or cleansing crystals

Play Defense

If you will be participating in any contact sports that could potentially harm your teeth or gums, speak to your dentist in advance about a custom mouthguard. Mouthguards can help protect your smile from damage so you can keep playing without the fear of injury, and professional versions are much more comfortable and effective than those available over the counter.

Eat Healthy

Summer sure does have a lot of famously tasty snacks but be sure to balance out treats like ice cream, popsicles, and saltwater taffy with plenty of healthy foods.

Brush Up

While you certainly should relax this summer, don’t take a break from excellent oral hygiene.  Maintaining your regular brushing and flossing routine will help reduce your risk of developing cavities or gum disease.

Take A Dip

Pools are refreshing and fun, but excessive chlorine exposure can damage your teeth so be sure to encourage your family to swim with their mouths closed. Furthermore, don’t let your kids run on slippery pool decks, and encourage them to be careful jumping in and out of the water around concrete ledges.

Remember, summertime is time to relax, unwind, and cast away your worries for a little while. Don’t let a dental emergency take the wind out of your sails. Schedule an appointment with your dentist today, and you and your family will have something to smile about all season long!

About Our Practice

Dental Center of Huntington prides itself on putting the patient first, after all we’re here to help you. Whether you need a new mouthguard, a cosmetic procedure, a general checkup, or an emergency appointment, your comfort is key.

To schedule an appointment with us, please visit our website or call 203-586-4669.