What to Pack, What to Do, Who to Call
Summer is here for Oklahoma families, and that means travel plans are heating up! But nothing cools your vacation excitement faster than an unexpected dental emergency— a chipped tooth, a sudden toothache, or a dislodged crown—especially when you’re about to board a flight. Whether you’re hitting the beach, exploring the mountains, or visiting family, it pays to be prepared.
What to Pack: Your Dental Emergency Kit
While no one wants to imagine a dental emergency while on vacation, having a small travel kit can make all the difference. Here’s what to include:
- Clove Oil – Sounds strange, but clove oil is a natural numbing agent that can help soothe toothaches until you can see a dentist.
- Orthodontic Wax – Not just for braces! It can cover a chipped tooth or a sharp crown edge to prevent irritation.
- Temporary Dental Cement – Available at most pharmacies, this can provide a quick fix for a lost filling or crown.
- Dental Insurance Card – Keep it handy in case you need to visit a dentist away from home.
- Contact Info for Your Dentist – Store Tecumseh Ridge Dental’s number in your phone before you go! It’s 405-857-6453.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers – Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and swelling.
What to Do: Stay Calm and Take These Steps
If a dental mishap happens on the road, don’t panic. Here’s how to handle the most common issues:
- Chipped Tooth: Rinse your mouth with warm water. If the tooth is sharp, cover it with wax or sugar-free gum to protect your mouth until you get help.
- Toothache: Rinse with saltwater, apply clove oil, and take a pain reliever. Avoid chewing on the affected side.
- Knocked-Out Tooth: Gently rinse (don’t scrub!) and place it in milk or saline. Seek care immediately.
- Lost Filling or Crown: Use dental cement or even sugar-free gum to cover the area temporarily.
Who to Call: Your Norman Dental Lifeline
If your trip is just around the corner and a dental issue crops up, don’t worry—Tecumseh Ridge Dental has your back. Dr. Andrew Wheatley offers same-day emergency care for patients needing fast attention before a vacation. Conveniently located just off I-35 in Norman, we can help you avoid vacation delays and discomfort.
Need last-minute dental care? We’re just a short drive from the airport and ready to help you smile stress-free all the way to your destination.
If your emergency happens while on vacation, call Dr. Wheatley. He can assess how fast you should be seen. If you need emergency treatment on the spot, search for an Emergency Dentist near me, check reviews, and give them a call.
Pro Travel Tip: Book a Pre-Travel Checkup
If you’re planning a big trip, schedule a quick checkup before you go. Catching small issues early can help you avoid bigger problems later. Think of it as part of your packing prep!
To learn more about our emergency care at Tecumseh Ridge Dental in Norman, visit our Emergency Dentistry page.
