Summer is finally here, and for many people that means it’s time to relax. If you’ve got a vacation coming up, you may be in the thick of planning and packing – while you’re at it, don’t forget to make time to visit the dentist! That may not be at the top of your list for getting into vacay-mode, but scheduling a checkup and cleaning can help you prevent a dental emergency while you’re away from Raleigh. Keep reading to learn more about why.
What Is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any problem with your tooth, gums, or soft oral tissues that requires immediate attention. It can be hard to get the help that you need in an unfamiliar place, which means you really want to take steps to protect yourself against an urgent dental situation when you are away from home.
Some of the most common dental emergencies include:
- A broken or cracked tooth
- A knocked out tooth
- A severe toothache or abscess
- Laceration to the gums, lips, or cheeks
Preventive Care Protects You From Dental Emergencies
The best way you can protect yourself from a dental emergency while on vacation (or any time of year) is to stay on top of your routine preventive care. Most people need to have two checkups and cleanings per year, but your dentist may recommend more frequent visits if you are undergoing treatment for gum disease or if you have any special appliances.
During this routine visit, your dental team examines your teeth and gums, looking for small issues that could become much more serious if left untreated. When detected sooner rather than later, many problems can be nipped in the bud – saving you time and worry, especially if you’re about to take a big trip.
In addition to catching problems early, your dentist can also talk to you about your lifestyle and have you fitted for a customized mouthguard if you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night. This small appliance can go far in helping to prevent broken teeth and other injuries from excessive force.
There’s Still Time!
You don’t have to do much planning to protect your smile in advance of your trip. Contact your dentist’s office about a month in advance of your trip to ensure you can have any necessary treatments completed before you say bon voyage!
Meet the Dentist
A top dentist in Raleigh, Dr. Christine D. Laster offers a comprehensive list of treatments for patients of all ages. From checkups and cleanings all the way to porcelain veneers and dental implants, Dr. Laster partners with her patients to help them achieve and maintain excellent oral health for a lifetime. She urges folks not to forget their routine preventive care during the summer! To learn more or to book an appointment, Dr. Laster can be reached through her website or by phone at (919)-561-6393.