Don’t Let a Dental Emergency Ruin Your Vacation
Summertime is just around the corner – that means it is time to plan a summer vacation! You can plan fun in the sun or other activities, but no one expects a dental emergency. However, if you know what to do in the event of a dental accident, you can still salvage your vacation.
First Aid & What to Avoid for Common Emergencies
When an accident happens, staying calm is key. The first step, especially for broken or missing teeth, is often simple first aid. Gargling warm salt water and flossing out painful food particles can improve a toothache. Ease the pain and swelling from breaking, chipping, or knocking out a tooth can with a cold compress. Oral pain medication can help with pain as well.
Avoid the old remedy of putting an aspirin directly on the tooth as it irritates the gums. The temptation to put off seeing the dentist until you return home but leaving a broken or chipped tooth may cause more damage or pain. Knocking a tooth out is also serious.
Seeking Emergency Dental Treatment
Don’t put off dental treatment. Once you have started first aid, if you can find the tooth or cracked pieces, put them in milk. See an emergency dentist for repair as soon as possible.
Many dentists offer emergency appointments. Finding one is as easy as an online search of the area where you are vacationing. Get the immediate treatment you need and be sure to call Carolina Smiles for follow-up when you’re home.
If you or your children experience a dental emergency during vacation, Carolina Smiles Dentistry can help when you return. We can also make sure the whole family’s dental health is on the right track to enjoy the summer. You can call our office at 919-620-6700 to schedule an appointment for you or your child.
*Stock photographs and artwork are for illustrative purposes only. **This blog/post contains general information about medical conditions and treatments. You must not rely on this blog/post as an alternative to medical advice from your dentist or other healthcare providers. Please see our full disclaimer at www.CarolinaSmilesNC.com.
