How to Handle a Dental Emergency While You're Traveling

Last year, vacations were postponed as the novel COVID-19 virus continued to spread. Thankfully, this year looks quite different! Although travel isn’t exactly back to normal, you may be itching to get away from it all. Whether you are traveling abroad or using your time off to check out some nearby sites, the last thing you want is for a dental emergency to get in the way. Keep reading to learn how to handle common dental injuries, how to find an emergency dentist abroad, and tips for traveling prepared.

Handling Common Dental Emergencies

Dental injuries can strike at any moment. The most common ones are toothaches, broken or cracked teeth, and a dislodged tooth. Here’s what to do if you find yourself handling one of these dental emergencies:

• Toothache – If you have a minor toothache, try rinsing with a mixture of salt and warm water, flossing, and taking OTC pain medication. If the pain persists, get in contact with a local dentist for a dental exam.
• Broken or cracked teeth – This dental injury requires immediate treatment. After rinsing your mouth and applying a cold compress to your cheek to mitigate any swelling, find a local dentist or head to the nearest ER.
• A dislodged tooth – If your tooth falls out, don’t panic. Instead, pick it up by the chewing surface, rinse it off (if it’s dirty), and attempt to place it back in the socket. If it doesn’t go in easily, place it in a glass of milk or your own saliva and head to a nearby dental office.

Finding an Emergency Dentist Stateside or Abroad

Handling a dental emergency is already an anxiety-inducing experience in itself. Handling a dental emergency away from home makes the experience even more stressful. However, do your best not to panic. If you’re still in the U.S., you can call your insurance provider to find local dentists that are in-network, close by, and skilled. If you’re abroad, ask the hotel concierge or call your country’s Embassy or Consulate. You can also search “emergency dentist near me” on your phone for a list of local dental professionals.

6 Tips for Traveling Prepared

Although dental emergencies aren’t entirely preventable, there are a few things you can do to lower your chances of experiencing one during your travels:

• Schedule a dental checkup and cleaning with your dentist before you leave.
• Research dental practices in every city you’re visiting.
• Pack an emergency dental kit complete with floss, gauze, and ibuprofen.
• Stick to mouth-healthy foods and snacks like apples and carrots.
• Keep up with your daily oral hygiene routine while you’re traveling.
• Practice safe swimming (i.e., don’t run by the pool, don’t swim with your mouth open, etc.).

If you’ve been waiting 15+ months to travel, the last thing you want is for a dental injury to be what stops you from enjoying your much-deserved time off. To prevent that from happening, get in touch with your dentist today to schedule a dental checkup and cleaning beforehand. Bon voyage!

About the Author

Dr. Greg Riley has been a practicing dentist for more than 20 years at Juno Beach Smiles. In his continuing education, he takes more than 200 hours of advanced training every year, which is far above the required minimum. Much of his expertise lies in cosmetic and reconstructive dentistry, and emergency care fits within that umbrella. However, he is happy to help patients avoid the need for restorative work through simple preventive care as well. If you are preparing to go on a trip or experience a dental emergency in the Juno Beach area, you can contact Dr. Riley at Juno Beach Smiles through the practice’s website or by calling 561-622-7243.