No one wants to experience a dental emergency. Losing or chipping a tooth can be alarming, and while your dentist can certainly help, you’d probably rather avoid the incident altogether. Fortunately, there are ways you can protect your pearly whites and reduce your risk of having a dental emergency!
Your dentist will be able to provide more personalized tips, but these four simple tricks will get you off to a good start.
#1: Brush and Floss Every Day
Brushing and flossing doesn’t just keep your teeth white and pearly. It also helps scrub harmful oral bacteria from your mouth. Without daily hygiene, these bacteria can accumulate to the point where they cause cavities or gum disease. Some of the most common dental emergencies can be prevented just by brushing twice daily and flossing once per day!
#2: Schedule Regular Checkups & Cleanings
Bacteria is one thing. As it sits in your mouth, though, it can harden into plaque and tartar. These tough customers can’t be cleaned with your toothbrush. You’ll need your dentist’s professional skills and tools every six months to effectively manage this type of buildup.
Checkups, meanwhile, allow your dentist to screen for early warning signs of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and more. “A stitch in time saves nine,” and twice-yearly checkups can stop a dental emergency in its tracks!
#3: Listen to Your Dentist’s Advice
After checking on your teeth, your dentist might have some advice for you. Maybe there’s a better way for you to be cleaning your unique smile, or maybe your pearly whites would benefit from additional care, like a fluoride or orthodontic treatment. Either way, trust that they’re well-qualified to be making these suggestions and consider them seriously.
#4: Protect Your Teeth with a Mouthguard
The previous three tips are useful for helping you avoid oral health conditions, but what about dental damage? Customized mouthguards are better suited for preventing physical tooth trauma. If you play sports or engage in strenuous activities, protect your teeth with an athletic mouthguard. If you grind or clench your teeth at night, ask instead about getting a special nightguard to soften the pressure.
Reducing your risk of dental emergencies isn’t exactly rocket science. A little mindfulness and routine care can go a long way towards promoting your oral wellness!
About the Author
Dr. Yonatan Pevzner’s favorite part of being a dentist is helping patients alleviate their oral pain and restoring their confidence. That said, he would rather prevent you from experiencing a dental emergency if at all possible! If the idea of making a dental appointment has you feeling nervous, know that Dr. Pevzner is licensed in all forms of dental sedation, and would gladly meet with you to discuss the best way to ensure your comfort.
To request a same-day emergency appointment, call his office directly at 512-451-4412. Non-urgent appointments can be scheduled online if you prefer the convenience.