A dental check-up before the holidays: which dental problems are best to sort out in the summer
Author: Dr. Andreea Florea
July 3, 2026A dental check-up before going on holiday helps to identify dental problems that could become urgent whilst you are away, such as untreated tooth decay, infections, loose dental work or gum inflammation. It is recommended that patients book an appointment 2–4 weeks before departure, particularly if they are experiencing pain, tooth sensitivity or discomfort, or if they have recently postponed any dental treatment.
In short: A dental check-up carried out 2–4 weeks before your holiday allows for the identification and treatment of tooth decay, infections, loose dental work and gum inflammation before they become emergencies whilst you are on holiday.
Why is it important to have a dental check-up before going on holiday?
A dental check-up before going on holiday is a simple preventative measure that significantly reduces the stress of a dental emergency.
With a simple appointment, the dentist can identify any cavities, infections or gum disease and recommend the best treatment to reduce the risk of pain or discomfort whilst travelling.
An important consideration is the timing of the dental check-up. To allow sufficient time for any necessary treatment, patients are advised to visit the practice a few weeks before their trip.
This helps to avoid unpleasant situations where the patient is forced to find a dental practice in a foreign city or country, where access to such services may be more difficult.
“An important consideration is when to book a dental check-up. To ensure there is sufficient time to carry out any necessary treatment, patients are advised to visit the dental practice a few weeks before their trip. This helps to avoid unpleasant situations where the patient is forced to find a dental practice in a foreign city or country, where access to such services may be more difficult.” – Dr Andreea Florea
Which dental problems should you sort out before going on holiday?
Some dental conditions do not cause pain at first. That is precisely why, before going on holiday, it is advisable to identify and treat any problems that may worsen without a dental check-up and may require emergency treatment whilst travelling.
| Problem | Why it’s a good idea to have it treated before your holiday |
| Tooth decay | Can lead to severe pain or infections |
| Dental infections | Can cause swelling and dental emergencies |
| Unstable dental work | May come loose whilst chewing |
| Gum problems | These can worsen and cause discomfort or bleeding |
Untreated tooth decay
Untreated tooth decay can spread deep into the tooth and cause sensitivity to cold, sweet or hot foods, as well as pain when chewing. If left untreated, the decay can reach the tooth’s nerve and lead to infection.
Early detection allows tooth decay to be treated using simpler and less invasive methods. In contrast, advanced cases may require root canal treatment or other more complex procedures, which can be difficult to manage whilst on holiday.
Dental infections
Dental infections can cause severe sensitivity and intense pain, and may lead to swelling, making it difficult for patients to chew and affecting their general well-being. These symptoms should not be ignored, particularly if the patient is about to go on a trip.
As these infections can turn a holiday into a less than pleasant experience, a visit to the dentist should not be put off. Simply taking painkillers or antibiotics without a doctor’s recommendation is not a solution and does not treat the underlying cause of the infection. In such cases, a medical assessment is necessary to identify the cause and provide comprehensive treatment.
Unstable dental restorations
Damaged crowns, bridges, veneers or fillings may come loose, crack or cause discomfort when chewing. An unstable dental restoration can also allow food debris to become trapped, leading to sensitivity or gum irritation, and the problem may worsen whilst on holiday.
Before setting off, it is advisable to have any dental work that is loose, cracked or has changed in appearance checked by your dentist. This can help prevent difficulties with chewing, discomfort and any dental emergencies that may arise whilst travelling.
Gum problems
Bleeding whilst brushing, inflammation, sensitivity or discomfort in the gums are signs that your oral health requires attention. Alongside the symptoms listed above, bad breath is also a common issue.
To prevent these issues from worsening whilst travelling and to ensure a healthy smile, a specialist consultation is recommended before travelling.
What does a pre-holiday dental check-up involve?
A dental check-up before going on holiday is not just about checking for tooth decay. The assessment looks at the health of your teeth, gums and any existing dental work, so that any problems can be treated before you set off.
The dentist will examine both your teeth and your gums. To prevent pain, they will examine extensive cavities, the quality of fillings, and the stability and functionality of older dental restorations; if recommended by the dentist, a dental X-ray will be taken to uncover any hidden problems.
In some cases, the dentist may recommend a prophylaxis session to remove bacterial plaque and tartar build-up, thereby eliminating the risk of gum inflammation. The dentist will also recommend treatment options for any conditions that need to be addressed before you leave.
How long before your holiday should you visit the dentist?
It is advisable to book your dental appointment 2–4 weeks before you leave, to allow sufficient time for examinations and any necessary treatment. If you are in pain, have signs of infection or are already undergoing treatment, see your dentist as soon as possible.
You should avoid postponing your visit to the dentist’s surgery and turning up just one day before you leave, as certain problems require several treatment sessions to be resolved properly.
In Romania, the summer months can be busy, which is why planning ahead helps to secure an appointment and avoid unpleasant emergencies.
What can you do if you get a toothache whilst on holiday?
If you experience toothache whilst on holiday, it is important to temporarily relieve the discomfort and seek treatment at a dental surgery as soon as possible. The measures below may provide short-term relief, but they do not treat the cause of the pain and are no substitute for a consultation with a dentist.
Severe or persistent pain should not be ignored, but self-medication should be avoided, particularly when it comes to taking antibiotics without a prescription. To minimise the pain until you see your dentist, avoid very cold, hard or sweet foods as these can trigger painful episodes.
If swelling, a fever or severe pain occurs, it is advisable to see a local dentist; if this is not possible, an online consultation can be arranged. Furthermore, even if the symptoms subside before you return from your holiday, it is recommended that you book an appointment for a check-up as soon as you return to your home town.
Doctor’s advice: If you are about to go on holiday and have not had a dental check-up in recent months, or if you have noticed pain, sensitivity or discomfort, book an appointment at least 2–4 weeks before you leave. In many cases, problems detected early on can be treated more easily and can prevent an emergency from arising whilst you’re on holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long before my holiday should I go to the dentist?
To ensure you have enough time to treat any cavities, infections or loose dental work, book your dental check-up 2–4 weeks before you go on holiday.
Can I go on holiday if I have a toothache?
Avoid going on holiday if you are experiencing toothache. Toothache may indicate a deep cavity, an infection or inflammation, which could develop into a dental emergency at any time.
Is it advisable to have a dental scale and polish before going on holiday?
On your dentist’s advice, a professional scaling and cleaning are ideal before going on holiday. These procedures can help reduce gum inflammation, bleeding and oral discomfort – all of which are particularly welcome benefits before setting off on holiday.
What should I do if a crown or filling comes loose whilst I’m on holiday?
Ideally, you should find a local dentist to assess the situation, and until you manage to get to a dental surgery, it is best to avoid chewing on the affected area. Subsequently, once you return from your holiday, your regular dentist should reassess the situation and determine an appropriate course of treatment.
What dental problems can become emergencies whilst on holiday?
Dental problems that can become emergencies whilst on holiday include untreated tooth decay, dental infections, abscesses, loose dental restorations, pain when chewing, and gum inflammation. Without a dental check-up before you set off, these conditions can worsen and cause severe pain and discomfort.
Is it a good idea to visit the dentist before going on holiday?
Yes. A dental check-up before your holiday is recommended as it allows dental problems to be detected and treated before they become emergencies. Furthermore, it allows sufficient time for treatment to be carried out and reduces the risk of pain arising whilst on holiday.