Don't Let Dental Trouble Ruin Your Spring Break Vacation

Posted on March 19, 2015 in General oral health

Spring break is almost here!  With kids out of school and warmer weather on the horizon, spring break is a time to vacation and finally get over those winter blues.  Whether you plan to go to the beach, go skiing or visit a famous theme park, it's always good to be prepared for the unexpected.

Although you and your family may take great care of your teeth, a dental emergency can happen anywhere, even when you are on vacation.  Fortunately, Delta Dental's dentist network is nationwide, so you can visit a Delta Dental network dentist in another state and still be covered.

If you have a minor accident surfing the waves or a toothache, here's what you need to know in case you or a family member has dental trouble while on vacation.

Toothache:

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen.
• Gently rub your tooth and gum area with an antiseptic that contains benzocaine.
• Place a cold compress on your cheek to help reduce pain and swelling.
• Make an appointment with a Delta Dental network dentist as soon as possible.

Tooth Trauma:

• If a baby tooth is knocked out, apply pressure to stop the bleeding. Call a dental professional as soon as possible.
• If a permanent tooth is knocked out, find the tooth, if possible. Rinse it gently in cold water. Do not scrub.  Position the tooth back into the socket and hold it in place or put the tooth in a clean container with milk, water, or saliva.  Go to a dental professional's office or hospital emergency room right away. The tooth may be able to be saved if treatment is immediate.
• For a broken or chipped tooth, rinse the mouth out with warm water and apply ice to reduce any swelling. Go to a dental professional's office as soon as possible. If you can find the piece of tooth, bring it with you. Immediate treatment can help prevent infection and may help save the tooth.

Injured Tongue or Lip:

If you injure your tongue or lip, wash the area gently with water and apply ice to reduce any swelling. If the area is bleeding and won't stop, head to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Some dental injuries can be prevented by taking extra precautions.  Here are some suggestions to help prevent dental injuries:

• Wear a mouth guard during sports activities.
• Always use a seatbelt while driving or riding in a car. Place young children in a car seat.
• Schedule regular dental visits for everyone in your family.

Although we hope you never have a dental emergency while on vacation, being prepared can keep your and your family's smiles picture perfect for all of those great vacation photos.