Summer isn't too far away, which means that it is time to plan for summer vacations away from school and work. Whether you book a flight or you go on a road trip, you will want to be prepared for dental emergencies. After all, you can't take a vacation from them. So, when you're away from home and your dentist, here are a few quick fixes for some common dental issues that may arise:

Dental Emergency: Throbbing Pain in Your Tooth.

The Quick Fix: Brush, Floss and Home Remedies.

In many cases, your problem may be that a piece of food from lunch or dinner got stuck between your teeth and it is causing you discomfort. Head to the bathroom, brush and floss your teeth. If this doesn't relieve the pain, consider some home remedies for toothaches. A couple of options include clove oil, which can be applied directly to the tooth that hurts with a cotton swab, and a cup of peppermint tea. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help until you can get back home and make an appointment with your dentist.

Dental Emergency: Bent Wire on Your Braces.

The Quick Fix: Dental Wax.

When you got your braces, your orthodontist likely gave your some dental wax for when something like this happened. If they didn't, you can pick some up at a local pharmacy or drug store. Simply apply the wax to the stray or broken wire to keep it from poking you in the gums or cheek. If you happen to have your orthodontist on speed dial and they don't mind, you can give them a call to find out what they want you to do. Usually, they won't want you to cut the wire. However, depending on the severity of the situation, they may ask you to. Make sure to keep any broken pieces to take back to the orthodontist with you when you get back home.

Dental Emergency: Lost Crown or Filling.

The Quick Fix: Dental Wax and Denture Adhesive.

If there are any sharp edges, you can use the dental wax from keeping them from causing you discomfort. You will want to save the filling or crown, if possible, in a plastic bag. And, if you can get your hands on some denture adhesive (usually at a nearby pharmacy), you can use it to reattach the crown to your tooth temporarily until you return from your vacation and make an appointment to see your dentist, such as Four Corners Dental Group.