Accidents happen, but that doesn’t mean that you should be caught flat-footed. There are many ways to safeguard your smile in the age of modern conveniences and good dental care. If you’re wary of dental emergencies, but don’t know what you should do to prevent them, continue reading. You’ll find some great strategies for preserving your dental health.
1. Regular Oral Care
The most convenient way to ensure that dental emergencies remain a rarity in your life is with great oral care. Brushing twice a day, when you wake up and before you go to bed is the first step. The second step is to floss nightly. This will remove the main source of most of the common dental woes—bacterial plaque.
The germs from this sticky substance will create acid that erodes teeth, creating cavities. The bacteria itself is also responsible for gum disease as it infiltrates the tissues and causes inflammation, swelling, bleeding, and loose teeth.
2. Wear Mouth Protection During Sports
If you or a child in your family plays a sport, it’s a good idea to get them a mouthguard. This small investment has the potential to save you thousands of dollars on dental care. Mouthguards are formed to the shape of your mouth and will protect against the majority of physical damage.
3. Be Mindful of What You Eat
Physical trauma isn’t the only thing that can cause damage to your teeth. Sometimes it’s sneaky. Plaque takes time to work and form cavities, but certain foods will accelerate the process.
Be wary of processed sugar and starch. These are found in a lot of products including candy, baked goods, pasta, and potatoes. While it’s okay to have them some of the time, try to moderate your intake.
4. Kick Bad Habits
Do you like to chew on ice? What about biting your nails? These are two habits that will lead to tooth damage over time. Using your teeth to open packages is another. All of these actions lead to chipping, fracturing, and exposure to bacteria. Try to reduce these habits by practicing mindfulness.
5. Go to the Dentist Regularly
The single best way to ensure you don’t end up with an emergency dentistry appointment is by visiting your dentist. Regular check-ups, cleanings, and screenings can catch smaller problems before they become bigger ones. It’s important to remember that, in general, dental problems don’t resolve themselves. A cavity won’t heal itself and gum disease doesn’t simply disappear.
If you do find yourself in need of an emergency dentist, don’t panic. If your emergency happens during office hours, your dentist may have same-day appointments available. Call immediately and get yourself checked. Being fast in your care and staying proactive is the key to avoiding dental emergencies.
About the Author
Dr. Nicholas Baioni is a dedicated and knowledgeable dentist who wishes to get his patients out of pain. He earned his dental doctorate at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Since then, he has continued to expand his skills through practice and professional organizations. Call (479) 370-2239 to schedule an emergency dental appointment at Peak Dental Care or visit the website to learn more.