3 Ways to Keep a Dental Emergency from Ruining Your Summer

Things have been rough the last couple of years. First, it was Covid-19, year-long lockdowns, and a shift to remote work. Now, as the pandemic seems to be easing up, there’s talk of recession and global heatwaves. If there were ever a time for a summer break from stress, this would be it. As such, you’ll want to protect your getaway from urgent tooth issues. To that end, here are three great ways to prevent dental emergencies on summer vacation.

Practice Sports Safety

A great way to blow off steam this season is through playing sports. If you take that option, though, remember to wear a mouthguard when you do. Whether it’s beach volleyball, football, basketball, skating, or biking, sports injuries often result in broken or chipped teeth. A mouthguard would provide a protective layer of plastic that helps avoid such damage.

If you don’t already have this mouth protection, talk to your dentist about getting one. Own one already? Then your specialist can assess whether it still works and fits properly.

Eat Healthy Summer Snacks

When you take time away from work or school, you might feel tempted to indulge in summer treats. Popsicles, ice cream, snow cones, soda — so many products could chill you out! Even so, try to avoid overindulging and limit your intake of high-sugar foods and drinks. Overeating these things could lead to tooth decay, cavities, or an infection.

Instead, try having healthier alternatives to stem your cravings. Tasty examples might include yogurt, berries, apples, and carrots. You could also drink water or milk rather than frozen slushies. Cheese, especially, would be good due to its strengthening effect on teeth.

Prepare a Dental Emergency Kit

Despite your best efforts, accidents can and do happen. Therefore, it’s wise to prepare for them ahead of time. Be ready for dental injuries during summer by packing a dental emergency kit with the following items:

• Local dentist’s contact information (both their home phone number and office number)
• Gauze (to stem any bleeding)
• Handkerchiefs (to handle any broken or chipped tooth pieces)
• Saline solution (to soak tooth pieces)
• Small container with a lid (to store missing tooth pieces)

Your summer vacation ought to be a time for rest and renewal. Follow the tips above so that your smile doesn’t ruin that!

About the Practice

Edgewood Dental is based in Michigan City, IN. As led by Drs. Haughtington, Noreika, and Havlin, their team truly cares for each patient’s oral health. To that end, they offer preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry that uses the latest dental technology. The practice is family-friendly, state-of-the-art, and makes you feel at home. For more information or to book an appointment, you can reach them at their website or by phone at (219)-898-4545.