Even for normally healthy smiles, sometimes dental emergencies can’t be avoided. Falls and other accidents are unpredictable, after all. However, there are some steps you can take to minimize the risk of experiencing a dental crisis. If you’re curious to know the best ways to keep your smile happy and emergency-free, continue reading. In the world of dentistry, prevention is the key!
1. Go to Regular Dental Checkups
Scheduling regular dental checkups and cleanings is important for maintaining good oral health. Your hygienist will keep your smile sparkling and your dentist can find issues early on and prevent them from worsening.
2. Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Consistent oral hygiene, like brushing twice a day and flossing daily, prevents most dental problems like cavities and gum disease. If you’re unsure of proper brushing and flossing techniques, ask your dentist! They can help educate you on the best ways to remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums. Over time, this drastically reduced the risk of tooth decay and oral infections.
3. Wear a Mouthguard
If you do contact sports or activities that may risk facial injury, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your teeth. While a custom-fitted mouthguard is best, even store-bought boil and bite models are better than nothing!
4. Kick Bad Oral Habits
Chewing ice, biting hard objects like pens or fingernails, and using your teeth as tools can harm your pearly whites. Avoiding these habits can help prevent tooth fractures, chips, and other dental injuries that often invite bacteria into your teeth.
5. Be Prepared!
Even with your best effort, accidents happen. Knowing how to respond to a dental emergency can mean the difference between keeping a tooth and losing it! Create an emergency dental kit with travel sized toothbrushes, floss, gauze and a small container just in case. In addition, keep your dentist’s contact information handy so you don’t have to look for it while you’re in pain.
By following these practical tips and being proactive about your oral health, you can minimize the risk of dental emergencies. Being vigilant and supporting your smile will help you enjoy a healthy, pain-free mouth, with ease. This is why prevention is always better than cure when it comes to dental care!
About the Author
Dr. Katherine Parét always goes the extra mile for her patients, especially when they’re in pain. That’s why she offers same-day emergency appointments and over-the-phone first aid. She earned her dental degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and has extensive knowledge of emergency dentistry procedures. If you’re experiencing a dental crisis, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. Call (207) 200-4106 to schedule an emergency dental appointment at Mind Your Mouth or visit the website to view a full menu of services.