What You Should Know About Preventing Common Dental Emergencies [Emergency Dentist]

No one plans their day hoping to visit the emergency dentist. Dental emergencies are unforeseen and can be traumatizing, which is why it is advisable to have a plan just in case. Dental emergencies not only can be painful but also costly. With caution and preventative care, you can avoid such situations.

How to prevent common dental emergencies

The following are essential tips that everyone should know about preventing common dental emergencies:

Regular oral care

This is the most effective and easiest way to avoid needless dental emergencies. Basic dental issues such as pain caused by cavities or decay can lead to emergencies. Brushing and flossing are crucial to keep the mouth free of dirt, plaque and cavities that may worsen if neglected. Patients can discuss their oral hygiene with a cosmetic dentist to get suggestions on best practices. One example is LANAP, a periodontal laser procedure that uses PerioLase to improve patients' gums. 

Regular dental checkups

Regular visits to the cosmetic dentist are also important for preventing an emergency. It helps the dental professional detect issues with the gums and teeth before they cause worse problems, as well as to ensure that your smile remains aesthetically pleasing. Going for a checkup and routine cleaning is cheaper and less painful than visiting the emergency dentist when there is a problem.

Usually, the rule is to have a dental checkup at least every six months. However, according to the American Dental Association, patients need to create a personalized plan with their dentist. Some people may be good with yearly exams, while others may require more frequent visits, especially if they have weak enamel or high oral bacteria count.

Ensure mindful chewing

This may seem intuitive, but everyone needs to avoid biting or chewing on foods or objects that may damage the teeth. Watch out for hard foods such as ice, hard candies or popcorn kennels because they can cause tooth breakage or fracture. Bacteria can easily accumulate in a cracked tooth and may cause severe pain or even an abscess.

Wear protective gear

A wrong move is all it takes to damage, break or knock out a tooth, which can be debilitating and expensive. When participating in contact sports or physical activities such as mountain biking or rock climbing, it is wise to consider a mouthguard. It can be custom-made by the emergency dentist to fit the mouth or bought over the counter as a boil-and-bite. Both options are effective for protecting the teeth against accidental damages. This is particularly helpful for children who are often less careful and more likely to damage newly formed adult teeth.

Take vitamins

This tip may come as a surprise, but getting the right vitamins can help the mouth protect itself. Vitamins are available in diets or supplements and have different benefits for the oral cavity. Vitamins A and B complex help keep the gums healthy. Deficiencies can cause gingivitis and limit the body’s ability to fight gum disease. Vitamin C contributes to the body’s immune system, which applies to oral health too.

Final note

Prevention is the most effective way to prevent dental emergencies, but accidents are sometimes inevitable. If you get into an emergency situation, contact an emergency dentist immediately for help.

Request an appointment here: https://www.casasadobesdentistry.com or call Casas Adobes Dentistry at (520) 365-0559 for an appointment in our Tucson office.