Dental Emergencies While Traveling

Spring is here and summer is coming, many people are planning their dream vacations and family getaways. However, in all their excitement they often forget about preparing for any "what if" dental emergencies that could occur while on the road. This is especially important if the trip will be overseas where you could face language barriers in addition to the concerns of finding qualified dental professionals you feel comfortable with treating an emergency.

The first and most important step you can take prior to departure is to schedule a dental visit for a thorough exam. (You should also do the same and schedule an appointment with your physician concerning your general health.) During your first visit, be sure to let your dental provider know about your traveling plans, where you are going and what you will be doing so they can ensure you are best prepared for your trip.

Here are some quick tips to care for dental emergencies on your own:

Toothache- Rinse your mouth well with warm water and gently floss between the teeth to remove any trapped food. Use a cold compress on the outside of the cheek if there is swelling and take a pain reliever. Never place an aspirin directly on the tooth or gum.

Broken Tooth- Rinse your mouth out with warm water, apply a cold compress to the cheek and get to the dentist as soon as possible.

Knocked-Out Tooth- Rinse the tooth lightly in running water, but don't scrub it; touch it as little as possible. Put the tooth back in the socket and hold it firmly in place. If you can't reinsert the tooth keep it in a glass of milk to preserve it. To improve the chances of the tooth being saved, try to get to the dentist within 30 minutes.

Lost Filling- Cover the cavity with paraffin: take aspirin if needed.

Possible Jaw Fracture- Use a handkerchief, necktie or towel tied around the head to immobilize the jaw. Get to a hospital emergency room as quick as possible.