Dental emergencies have a way of showing up at the worst possible times, like during a vacation, at an important meeting, or in the middle of the big game. Whether it’s a sudden toothache, a cracked crown, or a knocked-out tooth, emergencies can be painful, stressful, and costly. The good news is that many dental emergencies are preventable with a little care and foresight. Here are some practical tips to help you steer clear of unexpected dental disasters!
Keep Up with Regular Dental Checkups
Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to your teeth. Routine dental visits every six months allow your dentist to catch small problems before they become big ones. A tiny cavity today, if ignored, could turn into a painful toothache later.
Your dentist can also check for early signs of gum disease, worn fillings, loose crowns, and other potential issues that could lead to an emergency if left untreated. During this time, they’ll also use special tools to give your teeth a good professional cleaning that you can’t get with just your at-home dental care routine!
Practice Good Oral Hygiene at Home
They may seem like small habits, but here is an effective regimen for keeping your dental health in good shape:
- Brush for two minutes twice a day, preferably in the morning and before bed.
- Floss once daily.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reach germs that brushing can’t.
- Don’t forget to clean around crowns, bridges, or other dental work where plaque can hide more easily.
Keeping plaque and bacteria in check helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and infections – all common causes of dental emergencies.
Watch What and How You Eat
Certain foods can spell trouble for your teeth. Be mindful when eating hard candies, ice, popcorn kernels, or chewy treats that can crack or damage teeth and dental work. Also, avoid biting down on non-food items like pens, fingernails, or bottle caps.
If you have a habit of grinding your teeth, especially at night, talk to your dentist about a nightguard to protect your enamel from wear and tear.
Wear a Mouthguard During Sports or Physical Activities
If you or your child play contact sports like football, basketball, or hockey, a custom-fitted mouthguard is a smart investment. It can protect against chipped teeth, jaw injuries, and knocked-out teeth, some of the most common sports-related dental emergencies.
Even non-contact sports like skateboarding or biking come with risk. A mouthguard offers peace of mind and protection.
Don’t Ignore Pain or Changes
A small toothache, mild sensitivity, or swollen gums may not seem like a big deal, but they can be early warning signs of something more serious. Addressing these symptoms early can prevent a full-blown emergency down the line. If something doesn’t feel right, give your dentist a call sooner rather than later.
While not every dental emergency can be prevented, many can be avoided with regular care, smart habits, and a little caution. Your teeth are meant to last a lifetime, so treat them with the care they deserve. A little prevention today can save you a lot of pain and money tomorrow!
About the Practice
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, trust our team at Harbor Dental Center to give you a trusted, timely response. Drs. Bhatt and Todd can provide customized treatment plans for every dental emergency, plus we offer same-day appointments and a voicemail service for after-hours questions. To schedule your appointment, head over to our website or call our Cambridge office at (410) 228-5445.