Summer signals vacation time for many people, and that means suitcases filled with bathing suits and outdoor gear.
.But how prepared are you for a serious dental emergency? Would you know where to go or who to call? Having a dental emergency when you’re traveling – in or out of the country - can be tricky – and costly – if you don’t take the right steps.
Here are some tips to help you and your family be ready with an emergency dental care plan.
How to Recognize a Real Dental Emergency
The good news is some dental concerns really can wait until you return from your trip. Examples of these would be a mild toothache that’s controlled by over-the-counter pain relievers or a small crack in a tooth that isn’t painful. Even a lost filling, crown, or bridge can often wait until you return home if you’re careful about chewing and brushing.
On the other hand, there are certain dental issues that call for immediate attention while traveling. Some of the most common dental emergencies include:
- A knocked out, broken, or dislodged tooth or other traumatic mouth injuries
- Persistent bleeding from your mouth and/or gums
- Sudden, severe, throbbing pain in your jawbone
- Sudden swelling in your mouth and/or gums
- A toothache accompanied by a fever
- Growths or discolored areas anywhere in your mouth
- Brace wires cutting into cheeks or mouth, or coming loose
If the bleeding and/or pain is very severe, it may be advisable to head to the nearest emergency room for immediate attention. However, keep in mind, an emergency room doctor can usually only prescribe pain medication or maybe take a few stitches. You’ll still need to see a licensed dentist to take care of the dental issue. Rather than showing up unannounced at a strange dental clinic, call first and speak to a hygienist or a dentist for advice on what to do and when to come in.
Special Considerations for Dental Emergencies Abroad
It can feel daunting to handle any kind of medical emergency when you’re out of the country. Dental emergencies present a special challenge – how to find a reputable dentist.
If you’re staying at a hotel, speak to the concierge. If you’re camping or staying in rentals, contact that country’s professional dental association for the names of reputable dental clinics in the area. To really be prepared and worry-free, investigate these options before you leave home.
Additionally, be prepared to pay out of pocket at the time of dental service. When you return home, you’ll need to file your own claim by downloading and submitting the out-of-country claims form. Keep a copy of the detailed billing statement to send along with your dental insurance emergency claim form.
Be sure all information about the treatment is provided (including tooth numbers if any were involved), along with the date of service and total cost. Your dental insurance provider will do currency conversions at the time of reimbursement. Also, if your billing statement is in another language, ask if it can be translated.
Plan for Dental Emergencies Before You Travel
Some, but not all, dental insurance plans include some coverage for emergency care whether you’re traveling in the United States or abroad. Most Delta Dental plans do include this coverage.
To make sure you’re truly prepared for a dental emergency on vacation, review your coverage benefits and also identify emergency care options before you leave on your trip. That way, you’ll know the best way to seek care out of your home coverage area.
If you do need dental care while you’re away, be sure to make an appointment with your regular dentist for a follow-up visit as soon as possible, and to make sure your records are updated with any treatment you received out of town.
Bring Delta Dental on Vacation for Peace-of-Mind
If you have a dental emergency while traveling, and you’re able to visit an in-network Delta Dental dentist in any state, you’ll be covered at the same rate as you receive in your home coverage area.
If you must visit an out-of-network (non-Delta Dental) dentist, you’ll pay out-of-network coinsurance and then you need to submit an Interactive ADA claim form. The most important step to remember is to always ask for a detailed receipt for your exam or treatment.
We are here to answer your questions and help you navigate the process of filing your out-of-town dental insurance claim if you need help. To learn more about your emergency dental coverage while on vacation, log in to your MySmile account or text us at (833) 604-1246 if you have additional questions.
