Are you planning to travel this spring? North Burnaby Dental would like to offer some helpful tips to make sure that your vacation goes as smoothly as possible. One thing most people don’t ever prepare for is a dental emergency while travelling. In fact, we usually spend very little time thinking about our teeth at all until a problem arises. A small thing like a tooth ache however, can bring your vacation to an absolute grinding halt. How can you prepare your teeth in advance of your next vacation?
Preventative measures are best. By making a practice of simply brushing and flossing regularly you can actually prevent most serious problems from even starting, let alone from catching you unaware while away from home. It is wise also to see your dentist for a check-up prior to travelling. If there are any issues to address you will then be able to do so before you set off, ensuring that you won’t find yourself away from home with a nagging toothache or some other dental emergency. Planning ahead and seeing the dentist well in advance of your vacation, not the day before is highly recommended.
Something else that is easily overlooked is the effect of a recent major dental procedure. The timing of these procedures needs to be considered when planning your vacations, since recent dental work can be extremely sensitive to air pressure. Flying too soon after a root canal or tooth extraction can lead to serious, severe tooth pain. Most dentists will recommend two to four weeks of recovery time before flying.
Will your travels be taking you to remote locations without dental facilities? If so, it is wise to be prepared. Dental emergencies need to be handled properly and promptly. A dental emergency kit may very well save your teeth as well as your vacation. These compact kits are easy to pack and available at most locations where first aid kits are sold, and they tend to come with detailed instructions so that you know what everything is for and just what to do with it if necessary. Your dentist will be able to suggest which one is right for you.
While away, maintain your routine of brushing and flossing after meals as much as possible. Chewing sugar-free gum and drinking water between meals also helps to keep your teeth at their best even if you’re on the road and not able to brush as often as is preferable. If you are on an extended holiday be sure to keep up with your regular dental exams as well. If you’re travelling to another province or country, ask your dentist if they can make recommendations of credible dentists, or if they are part of an organization that has reliable contacts there. That way, in the event that anything happens, you will know where and who to go to. It is also a good idea to see what your insurance policies say about dental care while travelling. If you need to get a procedure done while away from home, especially if in another country, will your insurance company be able to cover it? What procedures does your policy cover exactly? Advance knowledge and planning can save you immeasurable trouble and money!
Make sure that nothing will ruin your vacation by adding dental care to your travel preparation routine!
To book your pre-travel check up, contact us today!
North Burnaby Dental hopes you and your family have happy, healthy travels!
Additional articles are available from Burnaby Dentists at North Burnaby Dental Group.
