Did you know that 1 in 6 Americans experience a dental emergency every year? Although you may never expect to find yourself in this situation, it’s more common than you might think. While you can’t always stop accidents from happening, you can take several steps to protect against dental emergencies. Here are a few simple tips to help you avoid needing an emergency dentist.
Commit to Good Oral Hygiene
Many dental emergencies are caused by untreated oral health problems, like cavities, gum disease, or failing restorations. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy is essential for preventing dental emergencies. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean your teeth twice a day for at least 2 minutes. Floss your teeth every day to remove plaque and food residue your toothbrush can’t reach.
Watch What You Eat
Your teeth are protected by your enamel, which is harder than some metals. Unfortunately, your teeth aren’t indestructible. Hard and crunchy foods can weaken your teeth over time until a fracture or break occurs. It’s best to moderate hard and chewy foods. Limit your consumption of sugars and starches to lessen your risk of cavities.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
The American Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. Routine appointments reduce the risk of preventable dental problems, like cavities and gum disease. Your dentist will also monitor your health for any changes to provide prompt treatment. They will prevent a minor issue from turning into a big problem, like a toothache.
Don’t Ignore Dental Problems
If you experience pain when placing pressure on a tooth, gum inflammation, or other changes to your dental health, don’t ignore them. It is much easier and more affordable to treat dental problems while they are small. You’ll also ensure a minor issue doesn’t cause irreversible damage. Delaying treatment just might cause you to lose your tooth.
Wear an Athletic Mouthguard
Many dental emergencies are sports-related. An athletic mouthguard will provide your mouth and oral structures with protection to lessen your risk of an emergency. It can even reduce the likelihood of concussions.
If anything unexpected should happen, don’t wait to contact your dentist. They will get you into their office quickly to provide the emergency care you need.
About Dr. Rishit Patel
Dr. Patel achieved his dental degree from Boston University and has continued his education to focus on many specialties, including oral sedation, dental implants, and emergency dentistry. He uses the latest solutions in dentistry to create healthy smiles. He is a proud member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (352) 290-8040.