Take Action to Prepare for a Dental Emergency Overseas
There is nothing worse than leaving for vacation thinking that you are lucky no one is sick and breathing a sigh of relief that you are well-prepared, only to wake up one morning with an excruciating toothache. Or worse, accidentally falling and chipping one of your teeth! What would you do in the case of a dental emergency while traveling overseas? Would you know who to call or where to go? Would you know which dentist could be trusted?
Be Proactive
If it’s been a while since you last visited the dentist’s office, or if you know you have bad teeth, then make sure you visit the dentist before a big trip overseas – especially if you plan on being out of the country for a prolonged period.
Similarly, if your teeth have recently become sensitive to cold water and ice cream, then take the time to ensure that everything is okay before whatever is ailing your teeth gets worse and becomes a full-fledged medical issue.
Get Dental Insurance with Your International Plan
Many travelers make the mistake of thinking they are covered for medical emergencies by their private or corporate insurance plan, or even by the trip insurance offered through their credit card company; and while they may have some coverage, often additional insurance is needed for full coverage against the unexpected.
Travel medical plans combine the benefits of trip cancellation plans with health coverage. So, whether your flight is canceled, your luggage is lost, or you are in need of surgery for a dental emergency, the right travel medical plan will cover it all!
Travel Health Insurance is temporary (perfect for those traveling overseas for a week to 12 months), but additional Overseas Medical Insurance is available for travelers who plan on being out of the country for a prolonged period.
Different insurance providers offer numerous levels of coverage, so start researching insurance well in advance of your trip so that you fully understand your coverage – and to ensure that emergency dental services are included!
Ask For Details About Your Dental Cover
Ask questions of your insurance provider as well as to whoever else can help you familiarize yourself with where you are visiting overseas.
Depending on your insurance coverage, many travel medical plans allow you to seek treatment with the hospitals, dentist, or doctor of your choice and also offer a deductible up to a certain amount.
If you don’t know if your insurance covers this, then it is important to ask questions so that you do know and can prepare yourself either way.
You may also want to do some research about the country and/or region in which you are traveling to before you depart, so that you can familiarize yourself with hospitals, medical facilities, as well as reputable dentists in the area (this is especially important for longer stays or if you plan on working or volunteering abroad).
Be Prepared For a Dental Emergency
Make sure you have everything you need to tie you over until you can see a dentist. This includes pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as well as your usual oral healthcare products, including toothpaste, a toothbrush, mouthwash, and floss.
This may seem simple enough, but if your tooth is decaying even a bit, mouthwash may be able to provide some level of relief until you can see a dentist.
Regardless of how well you prepare for an overseas trip, accidents and emergencies happen all the time. It is because of this that it is important to be prepared and to ensure that you are covered against accidents, illness, and emergencies of all kinds!
You may not think you will encounter a dental emergency until it is too late – and no one wants to add thousands of dollars of unexpected dental bills onto their vacation costs.
For more information on the right travel medical plan for you (and your teeth), contact one of our qualified representatives.
Helpful Resources
Joe Cronin, President of ICI, is a leading expert in international health, life, and travel insurance. An MBA and founder of multiple global businesses, he helps expatriates and travelers access trusted, comprehensive insurance solutions worldwide.
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