Summer is here, which means you can finally enjoy some downtime. If you’re like many families, you’re probably planning to take a vacation. The last thing you would expect to interrupt your plans is a sudden oral health issue. Although you might believe one will never happen to you, dental emergencies are more common than many people realize. Here are 5 tips to prevent dental emergencies to make the most of your summer trip.
1. Schedule a Cleaning and Checkup
Did you know not all dental emergencies result from trauma? Many oral health emergencies result from an untreated problem that has been lingering in the mouth, like a cavity. It’s best to schedule a cleaning and checkup with your dentist in Gorham before packing your bags. They’ll clean your teeth and ensure there aren’t any concerns that need to be treated, so you can feel confident your smile is healthy.
2. Practice Pool Safety
Dentists see an influx of pool-related dental emergencies every year. A fun day of swimming can quickly lead to a chipped or broken tooth from slipping on a wet deck or hitting your mouth on the pool. You don’t need to skip the swimming pool to safeguard your smile. Instead, practice proper pool safety rules, like not diving in shallow areas or running on wet surfaces.
3. Wear an Athletic Mouthguard
Summer offers plenty of sunshine and warm weather to head outdoors. No matter if you enjoy a game of soccer or riding your bike down a mountain trail, your dentist recommends wearing an athletic mouthguard. It provides a protective barrier to prevent serious injuries to your teeth, gums, and jaw.
4. Choose Healthy Snacks
Summer wouldn’t be the same without ice cream cones and other cool treats, but they can increase your risk of tooth decay. Instead, choose healthier snacks to limit your consumption of sugars and starches to keep cavity-causing bacteria at bay. If you can’t resist a bowl of ice cream or another sweet treat, brush your teeth well afterward. If you can’t get to your toothbrush, rinse your mouth with water.
5. Brush and Floss
It’s common to stray from your daily routines when you’re away from home, but you still need to commit to your oral hygiene. Pack a travel kit containing the necessary oral hygiene products to make it easier to brush and floss while you’re on the go. Don’t forget to pack any cleaning products or storage cases for your oral appliances.
Enjoy a Healthy Summer Smile
Don’t let an unexpected trip to the dentist ruin your summer plans. With a few precautions, you can ensure you’ll enjoy every minute of your dream vacation.
About Dr. Ted Morgan
Dr. Morgan has provided comprehensive dental care to the Portland community for over 45 years after earning his dental degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry. He is a proud member of the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. If you need an emergency dentist in Gorham, contact our office today.