Tips from an Emergency Dentist on Preventing a Dental Dilemma

Dental emergencies, such as broken, chipped, or knocked-out teeth, can happen at any time. If you experience a dental emergency, it is best to call your dentist right away. Prompt treatment can improve the chances of saving a tooth. And here are a few tips for preventing dental emergencies from happening.

• Brush and Floss Your Teeth Regularly

The best way to avoid a dental emergency is to practice good oral hygiene habits at home. The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice daily for two minutes each time. This keeps plaque buildup to a minimum and minimizes the risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease. It is also important to floss your teeth at least once. You should also take the time to brush or rinse after eating sugary foods or beverages to prevent harmful bacteria from forming between your teeth, along the gum line, and on the tongue. This will help prevent plaque accumulation, cavities, and other common oral health issues.

• Eat A Healthy Diet

Eating healthy meals and snacks will give your teeth the nutrients they need to stay healthy and strong. Fruits and vegetables are a good option because they are crunchy and high in water content, which helps to rinse away food debris from the teeth as you chew them. You should also limit your consumption of sugary foods and drinks, such as soda and candy. This will prevent harmful bacteria from sticking to your teeth.

As an added tip, you should increase your water consumption between meals. This will help prevent dry mouth, which makes it easier for cavities to form in the gaps between the teeth. Drinking plenty of water will also help wash away bacteria.

• Avoid Chewing on Hard Foods

You can also avoid chewing on hard foods, ice, or fingernails – all of which can crack or damage teeth. If you play sports, be sure to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth as well. 

• Wear A Night Guard or Sports Mouthguard.

The American Dental Association estimates that more than five million teeth are knocked out in sporting events every year. That’s almost 200 teeth per hour of play! Additionally, around 40,000 injuries to the mouth and jaw occur each year during participation in sports. Many of these injuries can be avoided by wearing a custom-fitted athletic mouthguard.

Night guards can help prevent damage to your teeth and jaws caused by clenching and grinding while asleep. Approximately 10% of the adult population suffers from bruxism, which is the medical term for chronic tooth grinding. If not treated quickly and properly, it can lead to severe consequences, including headaches, damaged teeth, and sensitive teeth.

• Regular Dental Checkups

Of course, even if you practice excellent at-home care, you will still need to see your dentist twice a year for routine cleanings and checkups. These appointments are essential because they allow our dentist to thoroughly clean your teeth and remove any signs of decay or infection that you may not be able to notice on your own. By visiting our office every six months, you can ensure your oral health stays in tip-top shape and prevent any serious complications from occurring.

During your checkup, your dentist will conduct a thorough oral exam to check for cavities, gum disease, and other common dental problems, such as bruxism or TMJ disorder. If any issues are detected during your examination, they can be treated immediately before they have a chance to escalate further into an emergency. By attending regular checkups with your dentist, you are paving the way for a lifetime of great oral health and working with you to maintain a healthy smile for many years to come!

If you want to learn more about good oral care habits, visit the Covington Signature Dentistry office at 27121 174th Place SE, Suite 202, Covington, WA 98042, or call (253) 638-9955 to schedule an appointment.