4 Tips To Prevent Dental Emergencies

As we all know, an emergency can occur at any time. The same is true for a dental emergency. While there is nothing we can do to prevent trauma to the mouth from a fall or other accident, there are certain precautions we can take to prevent many of the dental emergencies we do see often, such as severe discomfort or a cracked or broken tooth. Read on to learn helpful ways to avoid a dental emergency.

Ways to Avoid a Dental Emergency

We know that accidents can happen at any time, and it is usually when you least expect it and at the most inopportune time. However, there are certain precautions you can take to help avoid a dental emergency or injury. These precautions include:

Wear a Mouthguard
When participating in sports or recreational activities it is important to wear a mouthguard. This applies to our patients of all ages — adults included. A mouthguard can help protect your teeth and gums if you should be hit in the mouth. This is especially important if you are receiving orthodontic care and wearing braces.

Avoid Chewing Hard Items
Chewing on hard items such as ice, popcorn kernels, and hard candy can cause the tooth enamel to crack.

Do Not Use Teeth as Tools
Never use teeth in place of scissors or other tools. Teeth are not meant to cut tags, open bottles, or rip open packages. You can cause severe damage to your teeth.

Maintain Routine Hygiene Examinations
The best way to avoid a dental emergency is to maintain your routine hygiene examinations and cleanings. During these examinations, we inspect your teeth for signs of damage or severe wear. If we recommend treatment, it is best to schedule your appointment in a timely fashion to avoid an emergency or the need for a more extensive procedure.

If you experience a dental emergency or are in need of a routine hygiene examination, be sure to contact our office located in Spring Hill, FL to schedule an appointment. We are here to help!