A dental emergency can be scary, painful, and inconvenient. Of course, your dentist is ready to help if you ever find yourself in urgent need of oral care. But wouldn’t it be better to avoid such a situation in the first place? In this blog post, we discuss some easy and simple things you can do to greatly reduce your risk of experiencing a dental emergency.
Be Mindful of Your Oral Health
In many cases, dental emergencies are the result of cavities or other issues that remain untreated for too long. Be mindful of how your mouth feels. Take note of any new or worsening discomfort. You can also visually inspect your mouth for things like small pits in your teeth, unusual coloration, and other signs of problems. Do not hesitate to seek care if you notice that something isn’t quite right. The earlier you receive care, the more likely it is that you can avoid pain and invasive treatment down the road.
Be Diligent about Oral Hygiene
When plaque and tartar build up on the teeth, they can lead to cavities and gum disease, both of which can be a major factor in dental emergencies. To prevent such problems, you should brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day. You should also strive to use proper techniques when you are cleaning your mouth; your dental hygienist can answer any questions you may have about effective brushing and flossing.
Watch Your Sugar Intake
It’s perfectly all right to indulge in a sweet treat once in a while. However, keep in mind that when sugar interacts with the bacteria in your mouth, it contributes to plaque formation. Therefore, it is best to limit your intake. Also, keep in mind that eating small sugary things throughout the day can actually be worse for your teeth than eating a generous serving of dessert after one meal.
Protect Yourself from Injury
Here are some tips for preventing broken and dislodged teeth:
- Wear a mouthguard when you play sports.
- Eat cautiously when you are enjoying bone-in meats, popcorn, or any other food that has hard parts in it.
- Be aware of your surroundings, and exercise extreme caution if you notice any falling or tripping hazards.
Visit Your Dentist Twice a Year
Visiting your dentist every six months gives them the opportunity to identify and address oral health problems long before they lead to an emergency. Plus, regular professional cleanings remove tartar from your teeth. Tartar is a hard, bacteria-filled substance that often leads to cavities.
Some dental emergencies are the result of an unavoidable accident, but most of them can be prevented! Use the above tips to keep your smile healthy and happy.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Bryan Griffith has been serving as a dentist for nearly 30 years. Along with his associate, Dr. Alex Hartgrove, he offers general and emergency oral care services in Prestonsburg, KY. If you have any concerns about your dental health, our team would be pleased to serve you. Contact us at 606-874-9311.