The last thing you want when travelling is a dental emergency – it’s certainly a great way to put a fast hold on your holidays or business travels. 

While you take care of your teeth at home, sometimes when you’re travelling this can fall by the wayside – you’re rushing out to dinner, trying new foods, forget to pack your toothpaste; it’s happened to most of us at some stage. 

We’ve put together a great little list of how you can prevent dental emergencies while travelling, whether it be interstate or overseas. 

Pack a Toothbrush and Toothpaste

It seems simple enough but these everyday items can easily get left behind. If you forget your toothbrush and toothpaste, you should have no problems buying one in a convenience store, supermarket or pharmacy on your travels. 

If you are worried about your luggage getting lost, pop a small cosmetics bag in your carry-on luggage that contains a small toothbrush, travel-sized toothpaste, floss and travel-sized mouthwash. 

Bring Floss and Mouthwash for Cleaning Teeth on the Go 

Are you driving to your destination? Quite often we just grab some food and get back on the road; it’s not always the healthiest of foods, and sugary drinks and snacks do come along on the trip to stop boredom. Pack some mouthwash and floss in your handbag or backpack so that you can quickly clean your teeth after stopping for food. 

Avoid Eating Sugary Snacks and Acidic Drinks

We know that part of the enjoyment of travelling is trying new foods, particularly if you are travelling overseas. You’ll likely be dining out a lot which means less control over the ingredients if your food. Choose less sugary snacks and desserts where possible, and stick to drinking water as much as possible to keep your teeth healthy. 

Packing a small bottle of mouthwash in your bag or backpack will allow you to give your teeth and mouth a quick clean without having to go back to your accommodation between meals. 

See Your Dentist Before Your Leave 

If you are due for a dental check-up, or it’s been awhile since you’ve had one, booking an appointment before you leave is a good idea. This will ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy, and if there are any issues, they can be addressed before you leave. 

Pack a Dental Emergency Kit

It’s probably not something you consider putting together, but a dental emergency kit can certainly help in a pinch. A dental emergency kit is easy to put together, and contains basic items you can buy at a pharmacy before you leave. 

Your dental kit should include: 

  • Cotton wool – to help stop bleeding from injury
  • Pain-killing oral gel – to help stop pain from toothaches
  • Clove oil – can help to stop pain and freshen your breath
  • Antiseptic mouthwash – flushes out food and can be used to rinse blood to minimise infection
  • Dental mirror – can help to see what the problem is or what is causing your pain
  • Latex or vinyl gloves – important when helping someone else with a dental injury or if you are unable to wash your hands before putting them in your mouth. 

Ensure Your Travel Insurance Includes Dental Coverage

When travelling overseas and choosing your travel insurance, ensure that it includes dental coverage for any emergencies that may arise. When travelling domestically this is not an issue as you will be able to see any dentist. If you have private health insurance, ensure that you are aware of what this covers and any limits on who you see. 

Contact Your Dentist 

If you have any problems while travelling – major or any that concern you – contact your dentist. The dental team may be able to assist over the phone, giving you tips on what you can do until you get home or can see a dentist. 

If you’re travelling soon, book an appointment with the team at Road Dental and have a full dental check-up before leaving.