Dental Drama: 3 Tips to Prevent an Emergency

It’s an unfortunate truth in life that accidents can happen at any time so you never know when you might end up in the middle of a dental emergency. Whether you broke your tooth biting into bony barbecued ribs or had one knocked out during a sports game, you’re probably feeling worried, flustered, and possibly in pain.

While you can’t plan for these things to happen, it is possible to avoid putting yourself in scenarios likely to end with a call to your dentist. After all, no one wants the added stress or cost that comes with making the necessary repairs. Continue reading to learn about 3 tips to prevent a possible problem down the road!

Tip #1: Care for Your Teeth

The better the condition of your teeth, the stronger they are. That means they’re less likely to chip, break, or sustain some other form of damage. You should brush and floss regularly to keep them clear of tooth decay and gum disease. Your dental hygiene routine should include one session in the morning and another before bed at night to keep your smile at its best. Keeping your mouth healthy is a  perfect preventative measure because weakened or ill teeth are much more prone to issues that might land you in the dentist’s chair.

Tip #2: Protect Your Teeth

If you or anyone in the family is participating in high-contact physical activities, then it’s time to get a mouthguard. Many team sports require that participants wear them, but even if they don’t, it’s in your best interest to be safe. They’re made from a material that evenly distributes the force of a blow across your mouth so that if something happens, no one tooth takes the brunt of the damage. You don’t have to worry as much about one falling out if you take an elbow to the face, for example.

Tip #3: Support Your Teeth

You might have a dental emergency on your hands if you bite into a hard piece of candy just to crack your tooth or dislodge a dental crown or filling. This can be avoided by simply not indulging, which your pearly whites will be glad of. After all, sugary foods attract harmful bacteria known to contribute to cavities and gingivitis, meaning that you’re not doing your mouth any favors by eating them.

Opting for healthier meal choices, meanwhile, provides your teeth and gums with the nutrients they need. Your body requires a variety of vitamins and minerals to run effectively and many of those can only be found in the foods we eat. Leafy greens are often full of calcium that supports your pearly whites. Similarly, citrus fruits and colorful vegetables contain vitamin C which keeps your gums healthy.

Now you know how to protect yourself from a few common occurrences that might end in a real dental dilemma. Your mouth and bank account are both sure to thank you!

About the Author

Dr. Franco Cordini graduated from Creighton University School of Dentistry and completed extensive periodontics training at the University of Louisville, making him an expert in both teeth as well as gums. He’s experienced in a wide array of dental services, including complex treatments that require surgery or prosthetics. If you have an emergency, his compassionate team will try to get you in as soon as possible as well as walk you through some first aid tips over the phone. You’re welcome to contact the office on the website or by calling (502) 425-5010.