Warm weather and sunny days are finally here. If your bags are packed for your summer vacation, don’t forget to visit your dentist before you leave. Although there’s much to do before you hit the road, here are 3 reasons to make time for a cleaning and checkup before departing.
1. Avoid a Dental Emergency
You may think it will never happen to you, but 1 in 6 Americans has a dental emergency annually. Although there’s never a good time for one to happen, a dental emergency can ruin your vacation. Not to mention, finding an emergency dentist can be difficult if you’re not in a familiar location.
Visiting your dentist for a cleaning and checkup will lessen your risk of an emergent oral health problem. Many dental emergencies are caused by untreated issues, like tooth decay or infections. Your dentist will check your teeth and gums to ensure they are healthy, so a small issue doesn’t turn into a big problem while you’re away.
2. Ensure Your Smile Looks Its Best
Your dental hygienist will clean and polish your teeth to ensure they look their best. You’ll have a clean, healthy smile to boost your confidence for vacation photos or big events. You won’t think twice before showing your pearly whites.
3. Reduce Your Oral Health Expenses
You can have more money in your pocket by visiting your dentist regularly. Research has found that every $1 spent on prevention can save up to $50 on restorative services. Preventive dentistry stops common issues from occurring in the first place, so you’re less likely to need costly procedures later. You will preserve your natural smile while cutting your dental expenses.
Keep Your Teeth and Gums Healthy
Don’t forget to give your smile the attention it deserves while you’re away. Here are a few tips to keep your teeth and gums healthy:
- Commit to Your Oral Hygiene: Create a travel oral hygiene kit to make it easier to brush and floss while on the go. Brush your teeth after every meal and floss daily.
- Watch What You Eat: Limit your consumption of sugary foods and drinks, which can erode your enamel. It’s best to avoid any hard foods that can break a tooth. Moderate your alcohol consumption to prevent a dry mouth. Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist and your body hydrated.
- Break Bad Oral Habits: Don’t use your teeth as tools or scissors, like to open a snack at the airport. If you chew on edible objects, like your fingernails, reach for a piece of sugarless gum instead.
- Protect Your Smile: Don’t forget to pack your nightguard if you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth. Wear an athletic mouthguard if you’ll be participating in any sports.
A quick trip to your dentist will give you peace of mind because you’ll know your mouth is healthy. You can look and feel your best to enjoy every moment of your vacation.
About Dr. Louis Olberding
Dr. Olberding earned his dental degree at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry. He has regularly continued his education to provide advanced services, like cosmetic dentistry. He combines the art and science of dentistry to create healthy, confident smiles. Request an appointment through our website or call (402) 817-0098.