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Don't Let Dental Emergency Ruin Spring Break

Handling a dental emergency while on vacation can feel like the plot of a bad comedy movie. Picture this: you're lounging on a beach with a piña colada in hand when suddenly, you bite down on a piece of “chewy” local cuisine and hear a CRACK! Your tooth just auditioned for a role as a cast member in “Toothless in Paradise.”

First things first, stay calm. Panic won’t help your tooth or your vacation vibe. Instead, channel your inner MacGyver. If you have floss, gently remove any food particles that might be causing discomfort. Just be careful – you’re not trying to start a flossing revolution on the beach!

Common Dental Emergencies

But what if you don’t have a chipped tooth? Here are some other common emergencies you might encounter:

• Toothache: This could be caused by decay, infection, or a piece of debris stuck between the teeth.
• Broken Tooth: Accidents can happen, whether it's from biting down on something hard or an unfortunate slip.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Eating sticky or hard foods can sometimes dislodge these dental restorations.
• Knocked-Out Tooth: This requires immediate attention to increase the chances of saving the tooth.
• Abscess: An infection that appears as a painful swelling on the gums or jaw. 

Immediate Step to Take

Next, if there's pain involved, consider a pain reliever. But remember: aspirin can be a no-go if you have a bleeding issue. Instead, grab some ibuprofen and make a mental note to leave the “oral surgery” for Dr. Wassink back at our Harrisonville Dentist Office.

If the pain persists or you’re unsure the problem needs immediate attention, call us at 816-296-6825. We’ll let you know if we feel the situation can wait until you return home to Harrisonville, MO, or if you need to find emergency dentistry.

Finding a Local Office

If you must go to a nearby dentist, embrace the opportunity to explore the local culture. You can go on a mini-adventure. Just think of it as a treasure hunt for the perfect tooth-saving solution! And who knows? You might end up at one next door to a hidden gem your family can explore while you’re receiving care.

Finding a dentist on vacation might seem daunting, but there are several resources you can use:

• Hotel Concierge: They often have a list of local medical professionals, including dentists, and can recommend someone nearby.
• Travel Insurance Provider: Some travel insurance plans offer assistance in locating medical help and might cover emergency care.
• Online Research: Use search engines or dental association websites to find reputable dentists in the area.

Helpful Tips 

In addition to pain management that we discussed earlier, follow these tips to help you relax as much as possible:

• Stay Calm: Panicking can make the situation feel worse. Take a deep breath and assess the severity.
• Rinse Your Mouth: Use warm salt water to gently rinse your mouth, which can help with cleaning and reducing pain.
• Cold Compress: For swelling or pain, apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth or cheek.
• Save Any Pieces: If a tooth or part of a tooth is broken or knocked out, try to save any pieces and keep them moist in saliva or milk until you can see Dr. Wassink.

So, while a dental emergency on vacation may seem like a disaster, with a little humor and a positive attitude, it can become an unforgettable part of your travel saga! Just don’t forget to brush and floss. The only thing worse is a vacation without your smile.

Did you Know?

Did you know that tooth loss may be a risk factor for the development of dementia? Don't take our word for it! New York Times Best-Selling Author, Michael Greger, M.D. FACLM, shares this info in his book: How Not to Age. Find out more: https://nutritionfacts.org/hnta-video/dental-implant-overdentures-and-cognitive-function. If it's been a while since you've been to a dental appointment we have a $48 New Patient special that includes an exam and x-rays. Call us at 816-296-6825 today to schedule!