Dental emergencies are really painful and scary. The good news is that most of them can be prevented by just following simple care measures for your teeth. Regular checkups with an emergency dentist in Lehtbridge and proper oral hygiene will help keep your smile healthy and prevent these problems.
Let’s learn how to keep our smiles healthy and avoid these problems.
What is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is a term given to a severe problem with your teeth or gums that requires immediate attention from a professional. It may be severe tooth pain, a broken tooth, bleeding gums, or a knocked-out tooth. If you have swelling or infection, you need to visit a dentist immediately to avoid the worsening of the situation and reduce the pain.
Tips To Avoid Dental Emergency
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Brush and Floss Daily
Having good oral hygiene is important, and this is done by brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing once a day to remove food particles and plaque from your mouth. Brushing and flossing help to prevent cavities, gum disease and more. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste. Furthermore flossing helps to clean between the teeth which a brush cannot be able to access.
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Visit the Dentist Regularly
Visiting the dentist every 6 months helps detect oral problems early. Professional cleanings and checkups will help to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Your dentist can spot issues before they become emergencies.
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Wear a Mouthguard During Sports
When participating in any contact sports such as football or hockey, a mouthguard is worn to protect the teeth from injuries. A mouthguard is a soft, plastic device that is placed over the teeth to offer cushioning from impacts.
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Avoid Chewing Hard Objects
Chewing on ice, hard candies or other objects which are not food should not be bitten or chewed as it may result in breaking or cracking of the teeth. Only use your teeth for eating and do not use them to open packs or bottles.
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Eat a Balanced Diet
Consuming very sweet foods and drinks will lead to cavities. Healthy food items include fruits, vegetables, dairy products and more help in strengthening teeth. It is recommended to drink water instead of sugary drinks to protect your teeth from cavities and keep your mouth healthy.
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Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
Using the teeth to open bottles, tear packs or even hold objects can lead to their damage. These are tasks and should be accomplished with the right equipment to prevent harm to the teeth.
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Address Teeth Grinding
Grinding your teeth, especially during sleep, can wear them down or cause cracks. If you grind your teeth, then talk to your dentist. They may prescribe a night guard that you can wear when you sleep to protect your teeth.
What to Do If You Have a Dental Emergency on the Weekend?
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, dental emergencies happen. Here’s what to do if you have a problem when the dentist’s clinic is closed:
- Toothache: Rinse your mouth with warm water and gently floss to remove any food stuck between your teeth. If the pain continues, contact your dentist as soon as possible.
- Chipped or Broken Tooth: Save any pieces of the tooth. Rinse your mouth and the broken pieces with warm water. Apply gauze to any bleeding area for about 10 minutes or until the bleeding stops. See your dentist right away.
- Knocked-Out Tooth: Hold the tooth by the crown (the part you chew with), not the root. Rinse it gently without scrubbing. If possible, place it back in the socket. If not, keep it moist by placing it in a container of milk or a tooth-preservation product. Try to visit a dentist within 30 minutes.
- Lost Filling or Crown: Cover the exposed area with over-the-counter dental cement or a piece of sugarless gum to protect it until you can see your dentist.
Remember, taking care of your teeth every day and knowing how to avoid dental emergencies can help keep your smile bright and healthy.
Protect Your Smile: Prevent Dental Emergencies Today!
Want to keep your smile healthy and avoid dental emergencies? Stafford Family Dental is here to help! We provide gentle and professional care for patients of all ages. From routine checkups to emergency treatments, our experienced team of dentist in Lethbridge is ready to help. Using modern technology, we ensure safe and comfortable treatments. Schedule your visit today and protect your smile for the future!