Dental emergencies refer to oral health problems that are so urgent that they require immediate attention from a dentist, like serious toothaches, broken dental work, or even tooth that have fallen completely out of socket.
While many of these issues can seem like they came out of nowhere, the fact is that many of the most common dental emergencies are the result of mounting issues just now coming to a head. On the bright side, this means that there are steps you can take to stop dental emergencies before they get started. If you’re curious, here are some tips that can potentially help you!
See Your Dentist for Regular Checkups and Cleanings
As was mentioned above, it’s generally possible to stop oral health problems before they become serious enough for them to become a dental emergency. However, doing that entirely on your own can be a little bit challenging.
For that reason, it’s critically important that you see a dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. They’ll be able detect oral health problems before they become serious and keep you in good oral health.
Maintain a Consistent Oral Hygiene Routine
Good oral hygiene is the foundation of dental health and the best way to prevent emergencies. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using mouthwash can help remove plaque, prevent cavities, and reduce the risk of gum disease. Regular dental cleanings and check-ups, typically every six months, are also vital. These appointments allow your dentist to spot early signs of potential problems like cavities, gum disease, or even oral cancer, enabling timely intervention before they escalate into emergencies.
Use Protective Gear During Physical Activities
If you engage in contact sports or activities that put your teeth at risk, wearing a mouthguard is essential. A properly fitted mouthguard can protect your teeth from fractures, chips, and even loss. Custom-made mouthguards from your dentist offer the best protection, but even over-the-counter options provide a good level of defense. If you grind your teeth at night (a condition known as bruxism), a night guard can help prevent tooth wear and fractures, reducing the risk of dental emergencies caused by weakened teeth.
About Our Practice
At AV Dental Associates of Jersey City, we believe that there are two equally important components to dentistry: treating oral health problems as they arise, and preventing them from occurring in the first place. That means that we not only work hard to make sure that the treatments we provide are as efficient as possible, but that our patients are informed about the nature of our dental care.
If you have any questions about dental emergencies, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (201) 484-7759.
