Quick Answer
Before a long trek, practice good oral hygiene, brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and visit a dentist for a checkup and cleaning to prevent toothaches and other dental emergencies.
Preparing for Dental Emergencies
When venturing into the wilderness, it’s essential to be prepared for dental emergencies. Pack a basic dental kit containing items such as dental floss, a toothbrush, toothpaste, a temporary filling material, and pain relievers. Consider taking a dental splint or a pre-made temporary filling material to help manage a lost filling or broken tooth.
Managing Toothaches
Toothaches can be excruciating and may worsen with physical activity or altitude changes. To alleviate the pain, try using a cold compress or an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to numb the area. If you have pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, take them as directed. In severe cases, you may need to use a dental pain reliever like lidocaine or benzocaine, but be cautious of potential side effects.
Temporary Fixes and Splinting
If you lose a filling or break a tooth, you may need to use a temporary filling material to protect the tooth from further damage. Use a dental cement like Cavit or a homemade mixture of zinc oxide and eugenol to fill the cavity. For a broken tooth, use a dental splint or a pre-made temporary filling material to hold the tooth in place until you can get proper dental care. When splinting a tooth, use a flexible material like orthodontic wire or a piece of nylon string to secure the tooth in place, and be careful not to cause further injury.
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