There when you need them…like having an on call emergency dentist. But what’s the top advice an emergency dentist might provide about avoiding a dental emergency altogether?
No one plans to have a dental emergency. Although certain lifestyle choices, negligence, or avoidance can increase your risk.
Still, it’s good to know that you have a solution (besides an ER visit) should the need arise. Even so, you can increase your odds of not needing emergency dental care.
An emergency dentist would be a useful resource with expert insight about that.
Know the signs
Pain or trauma are often the first signs that you’re facing emergency dental treatment. It could begin with a toothache, bleeding, or tooth damage.
Trauma to your mouth, teeth, and gums also qualifies as a dental emergency. Knocked out, loose, or broken teeth create a panic situation.
A quick response is recommended to avoid further or more costly damage to your oral health.
Aside from these circumstances you can follow the expert advice of an emergency dentist. Doing so will preserve your health and prevent additional treatment costs.
Top advice an emergency dentist would share about avoiding a dental emergency
Focus on preventive, daily dental care
Sure, brushing and flossing are essential for healthy teeth and gums. And for good reason!
These oral health routines target bacteria. This present (yet unseen) culprit is responsible for the domino-effect that can produce future dental problems - even a dental emergency.
- Remove accumulated food debris from your teeth and gums
- Look for signs of infection (e.g. bleeding, swelling, etc) on your gums and in your mouth
- Observe any tooth damage (chips, etc)
- Check the ongoing quality of your previous dental treatment (e.g. crowns, fillings, implants, etc)
Manage your stress
It’s difficult to avoid stress. But you can take steps to reduce its impact on your health - including your dental health.
Oral health problems can multiply as a result of common stressors in your life. Stress can prompt certain actions that often lead to dental issues.
- Chewing on objects that can damage your teeth and gums
- Clenching your jaw
- Biting your nails
- Grinding your teeth
Cracks, fractures, or weakened tooth roots could happen when you place unnecessary stress on your teeth.
Use a mouthguard and a night guard
A mouthguard protects your teeth when participating in sports. They help absorb the shock of a blow to your mouth.
A night guard provides an effective barrier for teeth grinding while you sleep. Wear can occur on the surface of your teeth and cause their structure to weaken.
A mouthguard or night guard helps prevent tooth fractures and damage to your tooth structure and gum tissue.
Improve your diet
It’s expected to hear that sugary or starchy foods and beverages can damage your teeth. The greater impact has to do with your diet when combined with poor dental hygiene.
- Be aware of what you eat, when you eat it, and how you care for your teeth after eating.
- Bite and chew carefully especially when consuming hard, sticky foods.
- Include vitamins in your diet that help produce tooth and gum health (e.g. Vitamins A, B, C, D and Calcium)
Schedule routine dental exams and teeth cleanings
Twice a year dental visits provide healthy tooth and gum maintenance. Plus a professional dental exam pinpoints any potential problem areas that can be treated before they worsen.
Preventive dental care is a top priority if you want to avoid a dental emergency. And if you do experience unfortunate trauma or another dental issue be confident that an on call emergency dentist is available.
There’s an easy solution when you have a dental emergency or need to consult a dentist
The Dental.com team of dental professionals are trained to identify, diagnose, and treat any dental condition. From toothaches to second opinions - you’re covered!
- Access a 24 hour dentist now from your personal, private, and secure account.
- Select a reason for your visit using a brief questionnaire.
- Receive virtual dental care from a licensed dentist when you provide your issue details, any photos, and/or dental/health records.
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