Proper dental care is essential to maintain a healthy mouth and body. It helps prevent more severe health complications, such as heart disease and diabetes. If you neglect your teeth, it can easily lead to a dental emergency and leave a lasting mark on your smile. While some accidents are unavoidable, there are still several ways to lower your chances of having one. Read along for a few must-know tips to avoid dental emergencies.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
One of the best ways to minimize your risk of a dental emergency is to practice good oral hygiene. Plaque and bacteria can build up quickly if not removed properly, leading to tooth decay, cavities, and even gum disease. Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily is crucial to keep your mouth clean and prevent oral health problems.
A Healthy Diet
Did you know that what you eat affects your dental health too? It’s true! Sticking to a healthy diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy, protein, and whole grains can benefit your smile. Conversely, sugary foods and drinks can wreak havoc on your teeth. The bacteria in your mouth like to feed on added sugars, producing an acid that can damage your enamel and weaken it, causing cavities. But don’t worry, you don’t have to give up sweet treats completely! Just make sure you eat them in moderation.
Change Out Your Toothbrush
If you can’t remember the last time you replaced your toothbrush, then you should probably swap it out for a new one. While it should be replaced every two to three months, it’s a good idea to throw it out as soon as the bristles become worn or splayed. A worn-out toothbrush is less effective at cleaning your teeth, meaning it can lead to more complications down the road.
Take Note of Pain or Changes
Make sure you monitor your teeth, gums, and mouth tissues consistently and note any pain or changes. Tracking the condition of your oral health can help you catch underlying issues before they become severe. If you experience any type of pain, no matter how mild, that’s a sure-fire indication that something is wrong, and you should see your dentist right away. Failing to seek treatment can cause the infection to progress and destroy your nerves.
Regular Dental Checkups
Routine cleanings and exams are critical to keeping your oral health in optimal condition. Your dentist can eliminate plaque and tartar buildup that brushing alone cannot remove. Additionally, oral cancer screenings are performed at every checkup to detect signs of infection before it worsens. If you don’t see your dentist bi-annually, you increase your chances of developing cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, and other health conditions.
Dental emergencies can be an unsettling experience. But by following these tips, you can keep your smile as healthy as can be and save yourself a trip to your emergency dentist!
About the Practice
Our team at Geller Dentistry uses advanced knowledge and skills to provide each patient with the best possible treatment. From children to grandparents, we offer services the entire family can enjoy! We understand dental emergencies can happen at the most unexpected and inconvenient of times. Luckily, we provide same-day care so you can find relief quickly. Visit our website or call (323) 467-1472 to schedule an appointment.