How To Find a Dentist When You Are on Vacation

It can become necessary to find a dentist quickly when a dental emergency occurs while on vacation. While this is a scenario that few vacationers anticipate, it is something that anyone should prepare for while making vacation plans. There are also things that patients can do in advance to decrease the chances of a dental emergency occurring.

How to decrease the chances of a dental emergency

While dental emergencies arise unexpectedly by their very nature, moderate to severe oral health problems may increase the probability that one could occur. Therefore, patients who experience such problems should have a check-up before going on vacation to identify and take care of any potential issues that may cause problems in the near future. If a patient anticipates any dental work, this should be completed prior to the vacation, if possible.

Certain vacation activities, such as hiking, surfing, or parasailing, could pose a danger to the teeth. A patient who plans to participate in such activities while on vacation should consider taking along a mouth guard. Mouth guards protect the teeth from cracking, chipping, or traumatic loss.

How to find a dentist while on vacation

Despite preventative efforts, an accident may necessitate an emergency trip to a dentist during a vacation. This is something for patients to consider beforehand and take the following steps.

1. Have the regular dentist’s number

A recommended first step is to call one's regular dentist. Even if a dentist cannot provide services remotely, it may be possible to obtain a referral to a professional in the area that the patient is visiting.

2. Research beforehand

The patient may want to do some research into area dentists before traveling, paying close attention to any offering emergency services. It may be helpful to note down a name to remember should the need arise.

3. Plan for payment

A patient with insurance should try to go to a dentist that is in-network if possible. Otherwise, insurance may not pay for the services or at least will not pay as much. If there are no in-network dentists available, the patient should find out about other payment options, such as installments.

It may also be a good idea for the patient to seek out more affordable options. For example, charities, dental schools, and governmental clinics often provide services for free or at reduced cost. However, they may not perform emergency services. That is why research beforehand is so important so the patient can be sure that the chosen facility has the capability to help in case of an emergency. Patients may also be able to confirm this when talking to their regular dentist, either before the trip or on the phone once an emergency occurs.