Upcoming Summer Vacation? Plan a Trip to the Dentist First

Are you counting down the days or weeks until your family vacation? Traveling is one of the best perks of summer break. However, as you anticipate those fun memories and pack your suitcase for your family getaway, don’t forget to sneak in a visit to your dentist before you go. While a dental appointment may not seem as important as your bathing suit and sunblock as you plan for your trip, it could save you from a ruined vacation. A throbbing toothache, painful infection or lost dental crown can be a real drag to your vacation plans. Not to mention, if you are traveling overseas or going on a cruise, it may be very difficult to find quality and affordable dental care while you are gone. While not all dental emergencies can be prevented, there are certainly several dental-related disruptions that can be avoided if you take the time to see a dentist prior to your departure.

When to Schedule Your Visit

To abide by ADA’s guidelines and ensure your insurance will cover it, routine dental visits should be scheduled twice a year, six months apart. In order to properly time your dental checkup with your upcoming trip, it is best to schedule your appointment 2-4 weeks before you leave. This allows your dentist to diagnose and treat any concerns, such as a loose crown or cavity, with enough time to make sure there are no further problems.

Airplane travel is another reason to avoid waiting until the last minute for your dental visit. The air-pressure in the cabin of the plane can cause a recently drilled tooth to be extra sensitive. Of course, if you need a more invasive dental procedure before you go, such as wisdom teeth extraction or a root canal, it is typically best to have that done well in advance of your upcoming trip.

At Green Dental of Alexandria, we want our patients to have a safe and fun summer vacation that does not include memories of dental pain. Please call today to schedule your dental checkup for you or a member of your family!