7 Ways to Prevent Dental Emergencies from Happening

No one wants to experience a dental emergency. They can be painful, time-consuming and costly. Statistics show that 60% of dental emergencies are preventable. So the best way to treat one is to stop it from happening. Follow these 7 tips to stay out of harm’s way!

#1 – Don’t Ignore Pain

When you bite into food or drink certain beverages, do you notice a pain sensation? Even if occasional, this could be a sign of tooth decay, enamel wear, gum infection or some other issue. The sooner you have it checked out, you can move forward with having the problem corrected and prevent a dental emergency.

#2 – Practice Consistent Dental Care at Home

Many dental emergencies are brought on by prolonged dental negligence. Thus, your home dental care is vital to the health of your teeth and gums. It’s recommended that you brush at least two times a day. If you’re a frequent eater, you should consider brushing more often. Flossing is just as important. By cleaning in the tight spaces between your teeth at least once a day, you can remove the bacteria and plaque your toothbrush can’t get to.

#3 – Monitor Your Sugar Intake

Sweet treats are delicious, but they can cause havoc for your oral health. When sugar is consumed and allowed to rest on the teeth and gums, it attracts oral bacteria. As the microorganisms feed on the sugar, acids are released that can eventually wear down the enamel and lead to tooth decay. To be on the safe side, cut back on the sugar intake.

#4 – Wear a Protective Mouthguard if Involved in Sports

When people are moving around fast, it’s easy for a collision to happen. In a blink of an eye, a tooth can be knocked out. Wearing a protective mouthguard will help to prevent this happening. While there are generic options sold in stores, having a custom mouthguard made by a dentist will provide the best protection.

#5 – Seek Immediate Care for a Chipped or Cracked Tooth

On some occasions, a chipped or cracked tooth may not result in any sharp pain. This can be misleading. Ignoring any existing tooth damage can result in a more severe problem down the road. This could spell pain, the need for complex care and a significant out-of-pocket contribution.

#6 – Make Sure You’re Hydrated

Proper water consumption is necessary to maintain cellular, organ and tissue function. It also plays an integral role in oral health, as it aids in saliva production. The moisture in your mouth helps maintain a balanced pH level and flush bacteria that could eventually turn into plaque.

#7 – Visit the Dentist Regularly

You should visit a dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings. If there is a developing issue, it can be identified and addressed before it develops into a dental emergency.

There is an old axiom that says, “One ounce of prevention is worth more than 10 pounds of cure.” The steps you take now to protect your teeth and gums will pay dividends in the form of a healthy and happy smile for years to come!

About the Author

Dr. Jed M. Koops is a graduate of Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH. Throughout his career, he has continued to expand his knowledge, taking hours of continuing education. Additionally, Dr. Koops maintains professional affiliation with such organizations as SPEAR Education and the Academy of General Dentistry. He provides emergency and preventive dental care at Orange Place Family Dentistry, and he can be reached for more information or to schedule a visit through his website.