Have you started planning your summer vacation? Your family may be excited to embark on new adventures, but all the fun could put your oral health at risk. It takes just one broken tooth or a toothache to derail your plans. Whether it’s a weekend getaway, an international excursion, or even a single-day trip, you and your family can prevent dental emergencies with the following tips.
Monitor Oral Hygiene Routine
Now that the little ones are out of school and each day brings something different, it can be easy to fall out of routine. Remind everyone to continue following their oral hygiene routine diligently. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day is essential to keep your smile healthy!
Stay Hydrated
If you’re like most people, you plan on spending your days off outside, soaking up the summer sun. It can be tempting to reach for a soda, lemonade, juice, or sports drink when you want to cool down. But these sweet and acidic drinks can damage your enamel and cause decay. Instead, quench your thirst by drinking more water! It’s the best drink for your oral and bodily health.
Enforce Pool Safety
For children and adults, a swim at the local pool is a traditional way to spend summer. It may seem like a fun, harmless activity, but it’s actually one of the top causes of dental emergencies during the warmer months. People bumping into others while swimming, running on slippery decks, and diving in shallow water can all result in mouth injuries. Brush up on pool safety before the season starts, and make sure your kids always follow safe practices.
Pack a Dental Emergency Kit
Unfortunately, some accidents just can’t be prevented no matter how safe you are. Be prepared for the unexpected by keeping a dental emergency kit with you that includes:
- A card with your dentist’s contact information (office and emergency phone numbers)
- A small container with a lid
- Saline solution
- Gauze
- A handkerchief
- Ibuprofen (Make sure it’s not aspirin! It is an anticoagulant and can lead to excessive bleeding.)
Schedule Checkups
Summertime means a more open schedule. It’s the perfect time to schedule dental visits since you don’t have to worry about working around school hours! Plus, your dentist can make sure everyone’s smile is healthy and ready for a fun vacation. A quick dental exam will allow your dentist to detect or treat any issues, such as tooth pain, cavities, or other oral problems. While these may seem like mere nuisances, they can lead to severe complications down the road.
Your family’s oral health should be a priority regardless of the season. Following these simple tips to protect your smile will ensure you’re spending your vacation having fun — not in the waiting room!
About the Author
Dr. Wael M. Kassem is devoted to providing patients with exceptional service using the most current, high-quality materials. After completing his dental studies in 2007, he broadened his knowledge at Kings County Hospital in Brooklyn, a level one trauma center known for its intensive training. This experience allows Dr. Kassem and his team at iSmile Dental Arts to handle dental emergencies with expertise and confidence. If your family finds themselves facing a dental emergency this summer, contact us immediately for urgent care via our website or call (856) 818-9998.
