Why Holiday Dental Emergencies Are So Common
Between sweet treats, travel, cold weather, and inconsistent routines, the holidays present several risks to oral health:
- Cracked teeth from hard candies or nuts
- Lost fillings or crowns from sticky foods
- Toothaches triggered by temperature changes
- Jaw pain from stress-related clenching
- Swollen gums due to irregular brushing/flossing
Kids are especially vulnerable during the holidays when routines shift and sugary snacks are everywhere. Parents often don’t realize there’s an issue until symptoms appear suddenly, and by then, local clinics might be closed or appointment slots booked.
The best way to avoid a painful or stressful situation is to plan ahead with your dentist and know how to manage issues until professional care is available.
How to Prepare for a Dental Emergency During Holiday Travel
Whether you’re flying across the country or driving to Banff, here’s how to keep dental emergencies under control:
1. Schedule a Pre-Trip Exam
Book a cleaning or dental checkup before you leave. We’ll examine fillings, crowns, and gums to ensure nothing is at risk of breaking or flaring up during your vacation.
2. Know the Warning Signs
If you’ve been ignoring a dull ache or sensitive tooth, don’t wait. Many winter emergencies start as minor issues that worsen with travel, cold exposure, or pressure from holiday foods.
3. Travel with a Dental Kit
Pack the following items in your carry-on or glovebox:
- Gauze
- Dental wax (great for poking braces or sharp edges)
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- Temporary filling material (available at pharmacies)
- Marlborough Dental Centre’s contact information
4. Learn Temporary Fixes
If a crown falls off, clean the tooth gently and cover it with dental wax or sugar-free gum. If a tooth chips, avoid chewing on that side and use saltwater rinses to reduce bacteria. These are not permanent fixes—but they’ll help until you can get to a dentist.
5. Understand What’s Urgent
- Call immediately for knocked-out teeth, dental trauma, or severe swelling.
- Manage at home (briefly) for cracked teeth, lost fillings, or mild pain—then book care ASAP.
Emergency Dental Services at Marlborough Dental Centre
We’re here to support our patients through the holidays and beyond. Our emergency dental services include:
- Same-day appointments when available
- Urgent assessments of cracked, chipped, or broken teeth
- Repair of lost crowns, fillings, and veneers
- Treatment for toothaches, abscesses, and infections
- Gentle pediatric emergency care
- Digital X-rays and diagnostics for fast action
Because we offer direct billing, emergency visits are processed quickly through your insurance, saving you time and stress. If you have children or seniors in your care, we’ll also provide advice on how to minimize the risk of injuries from hard foods, icy weather, or bruxism-related jaw pain.
Stay One Step Ahead of Holiday Dental Issues
Don’t wait for a cracked tooth, swollen gum or other dental emergencies ruin your holidays. Being prepared, especially when travelling, helps avoid discomfort, missed events, and unnecessary costs.
Before you pack your bags or stock up on stocking stuffers, schedule a dental exam at Marlborough Dental Centre. We’ll make sure your family’s smiles are protected from the seasonal stressors that lead to emergencies.
Contact us today for pre-travel checkups, emergency readiness advice, or fast holiday appointments.
FAQs
Q: What Should I Do If A Filling Falls Out While I’m Travelling?
A: Use temporary dental material or sugar-free gum to protect the area, and see a dentist as soon as you return.
Q: Can You Help With Emergencies Over The Holidays?
A: We do our best to accommodate emergencies and will advise on the best steps if we’re closed. Call us right away.
Q: What Are The Signs That I Need Urgent Care?
A: Severe pain, swelling, trauma, or a knocked-out tooth all require immediate attention.
