Oral health is an essential aspect of one’s overall wellbeing, and maintaining good oral health requires regular visits to the dentist, proper oral hygiene, and avoiding dental emergencies. Dental emergency can occur at any time, and they can be painful and disruptive. However, they are also preventable in many cases. In this article, we will discuss what dental emergencies are, their causes, and how to avoid them.
What are Dental Emergencies?
A dental emergency is an oral health issue that requires immediate attention from a dental professional. Dental emergencies can be caused by trauma, infection, or damage to the teeth, gums, or mouth. Some common dental emergencies include:
Toothache: A toothache can be caused by tooth decay, gum disease, or a damaged tooth.
Chipped or Broken Tooth: A chipped or broken tooth can be caused by a fall, a blow to the face, or biting down on something hard.
Knocked-Out Tooth: A knocked-out tooth can occur due to trauma to the face or mouth.
Abscessed Tooth: An abscessed tooth is a painful infection at the root of a tooth that requires immediate treatment.
Lost or Broken Filling or Crown: A lost or broken dental filling or crown can cause pain and sensitivity in the affected tooth.
How to Avoid Dental Emergencies?
Dental emergencies can be painful, disruptive, and costly to treat. However, many dental emergencies can be prevented by taking good care of your oral health. Here are some tips to help you avoid dental emergencies:
Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss at least once a day, and use mouthwash to kill bacteria.
Wear a Mouthguard: If you participate in sports or other activities that could result in a blow to the face, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and gums.
Avoid Chewing on Hard Objects: Avoid chewing on ice, popcorn kernels, and other hard objects that could chip or break your teeth.
Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools: Your teeth are not tools, and using them to open bottles, rip packages, or hold objects can damage them.
See Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help prevent dental problems before they become emergencies.
Eat a Healthy Diet: A healthy diet is essential for good oral health. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks.
What to Do in Case of a Dental Emergency?
Despite your best efforts, dental emergencies can still occur. If you experience a dental emergency, here’s what you should do:
Toothache: Floss to remove any food particles that may be causing the pain and avoid anything that triggers pain (e.g. chewing hard items, hot/cold foods…etc). If the pain persists, take over-the-counter pain medication and see your dentist as soon as possible.
Chipped or Broken Tooth: Avoid using the tooth or chew gently to limit further damage. Keep the tooth clean and see your dentist immediately.
Knocked-Out Tooth: Hold the tooth by the crown (the part that sticks out into the mouth, not the root) and do not scrub or clean the tooth. Keep it in a container of milk and see your dentist immediately.
Abscessed Tooth: Rinse your mouth with salt water and take over-the-counter pain medication. See your dentist immediately as an abscessed tooth can cause serious health complications.
Lost or Broken Filling or Crown: If possible, save any broken pieces of the filling or crown and see your dentist as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Dental emergencies can be a painful and unpleasant experience, but they can also be prevented in many cases. By practicing good oral hygiene, wearing a mouthguard during high-risk activities, and avoiding chewing on hard objects or using your teeth as tools, you can reduce the risk of dental emergencies. Additionally, regular dental checkups and cleanings can help identify and prevent dental problems before they become emergencies.
If you do experience a dental emergency, it’s essential to seek professional help as soon as possible. Delaying treatment can result in more serious complications, pain, and more expensive treatment. By taking quick action and following the above steps, you can minimize the damage and prevent further complications.
In conclusion, good oral hygiene, healthy eating habits, and regular visits to the dentist are the best ways to avoid dental emergencies. However, in case of a dental emergency, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your teeth and gums remain healthy and pain-free. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, so take care of your oral health to avoid dental emergencies.
If you are looking for right emergency dentist in Yonge & Eglinton, consider Town Smiles Dental. We will help you with all your emergency dental needs.