No one begins their day expecting to visit an emergency dentist due to dental trauma. Typically, a dental emergency signifies a high risk of permanent tooth loss, severe gum bleeding, or intense tooth pain.
If you encounter a dental emergency, you need to visit a dental office immediately. Emergencies can arise suddenly, such as having a tooth knocked out during sports, or develop gradually, like an abscessed tooth. So, how can you protect your teeth and gums to minimize the risk of a dental crisis?
In this article, Janz Family Dental is here to share 7 tips on preventing dental emergencies.
What Is Considered A Dental Emergency?
Accidents and oral injuries need no invitation, but you must understand when you must immediately visit an emergency dentist or wait for your next appointment. A dental emergency is considered when you suffer from excessive pain or bleeding, severe infection, tissue injury, missing teeth, or swollen mouth. You should see the emergency dentist immediately if you suffer from these conditions.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
A robust oral hygiene routine is your first defence against dental emergencies. Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash can help prevent cavities and gum disease, which are common culprits behind emergency dental visits. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also crucial in spotting potential issues before they become serious problems.
2. Wear Protective Gear
If you participate in contact sports or activities with a risk of injury to your mouth, wearing a mouthguard is essential. A custom-fitted mouthguard provides the best protection against broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, and injuries to your lips, tongue, face, or jaw. Don’t forget to wear a helmet when necessary, as it can also protect your mouth and teeth in case of an accident.
3. Avoid Chewing Hard Objects
We’ve all been tempted to use our teeth to open a package or chew on ice, but these habits can lead to chipped or cracked teeth. Instead, use scissors to open packages and avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, popcorn kernels, and hard candies. Being mindful of what you put in your mouth can significantly reduce the risk of dental injuries.
4. Address Dental Problems Early
Ignoring minor dental issues can lead to more significant problems down the road. If you experience a toothache or sensitivity or notice a chipped tooth, don’t wait to see your dentist. Early intervention can prevent a minor issue from developing into a painful and costly dental emergency. At Edmonton, Janz Family Dental’s emergency dental services are always available, but addressing problems early is the best strategy.
5. Be Mindful of What You Eat
Your diet plays a crucial role in your oral health. Foods high in sugar and acid can erode enamel and increase your risk of cavities and gum disease. Stick to a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products. Drinking plenty of water, especially fluoridated water, can help wash away food particles and bacteria, keep your mouth clean and reduce the risk of dental emergencies.
6. Practice Good Habits
Simple habits like not using your teeth as tools, avoiding excessive grinding or clenching, and quitting smoking can protect your oral health. If you grind your teeth at night, talk to your dentist about getting a mouthguard. Quitting smoking can improve your overall health and significantly reduce your risk of gum disease and oral cancer.
7. Keep Up with Regular Dental Visits
In addition to maintaining a thorough oral hygiene routine, regular visits to your dentist for cleanings and exams are essential. These visits ensure your teeth are cleaned with professional-grade tools and allow your dentist to detect any potential issues early on.
At Janz Family Dental, our dentists can identify and address problems before they escalate, significantly reducing the risk of dental emergencies. Regular check-ups are a vital component in maintaining a healthy, pain-free smile!
Stay Ahead of Dental Disasters
While it’s impossible to prevent all dental emergencies, following these tips can significantly reduce your risk and keep your smile healthy.
At Janz Family Dental, we specialize in emergency dental cases and recover the structure of your teeth as before. Our experienced team of dentists is detail-oriented and well-equipped with state-of-the-art tools to offer you effortless service. If you are stuck in dental trauma, don’t hesitate to call us if you’re having a dental emergency or just need a check-up!
