Our Dentist Ben Griffith’s Guide to Holiday Dental Mishaps

A dental emergency is never part of the holiday plan, but biting into something hard, having a fall, or even an unexpected accident can turn a relaxing trip into a stressful situation. Knowing what to do can make all the difference in protecting your tooth and preventing further complications.

In this article, our dentist Ben Griffith guides us through the steps to take in a dental emergency and when you should seek help from a dentist overseas. If you need treatment on your return to Teddington, call ahead to for advice from our team.

What to do if you damage a tooth on holiday

Common holiday dental injuries

The most frequent problems we see at Church Road Dental Care Centre include chipped or cracked teeth, lost fillings or crowns, and sudden toothache. In more serious cases, a tooth may be knocked out completely. Ben explains that acting quickly is key to improving the outcome.

Immediate steps to take

If you damage a tooth while away:

• Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to clean the area
• Control any bleeding with a clean cloth or gauze
• Reduce swelling by applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek
• Manage pain with over-the-counter pain relief (avoid placing tablets directly on the gum)

If a tooth has been knocked out, handle it by the crown (top), not the root. If possible, gently place it back in the socket. If that's not possible, keep it in milk or saliva and seek urgent dental care in the area you are staying.

Temporary fixes until you're seen

If a filling or crown has come loose, keep it safe if you can. Over-the-counter dental repair kits from a local pharmacy may help as a short-term solution. Try to avoid chewing on the affected side and stick to soft foods. At this point, it's a good idea to contact us for further advice and to book an appointment at Church Road Dental for your return.

When to seek help

If you're in significant pain, have swelling, or suspect infection, seek local dental care as soon as possible. Many resorts and cities have emergency dental services available and your host or hotel should be able to guide you.

Prevention tips before you travel

A quick dental check-up before your holiday can reduce the risk of unexpected issues. Avoid using your teeth to open packaging and be mindful when eating hard foods like ice or sweets. Even with the best preparation, accidents can still happen. If you experience a dental problem while away, call us on 0208 977 3746 and speak to our Teddington dentists. We're here to help you get your smile back on track as quickly and comfortably as possible.