Visiting an emergency dentist is the last thing you will want to do, but if you experience dental trauma, you need to seek treatment right away. A high risk of permanent tooth loss, excruciating tooth pain and severe gum bleeding are examples of dental emergencies. A knocked-out tooth as a result of a car accident or sports injury will also require emergency dental care, as will issues that can develop slowly, like an abscessed tooth.
Some situations are out of your control, but there are ways to protect your teeth and gums, and the following tips will help you maintain a healthy mouth to prevent dental emergencies:
Follow a Proper Oral Hygiene Routine
Practicing daily dental hygiene is a must, as brushing and flossing regularly will help you maintain the health of your gums and teeth. Bacteria will accumulate if food debris is left in your mouth, and this can lead to tooth decay or gum disease. Infections in the mouth can be detrimental to the teeth and gums, and you may need to visit your emergency dentist in Scarborough if you fail to maintain a good oral hygiene routine.
Use Mouth Guards
While this is beneficial for everyone, individuals who participate in sports will find the use of mouth guards to be especially helpful as this tool will protect your teeth from damage by absorbing heavy blows to the mouth. Always wear a mouth guard when participating in contact sports and recreational activities.
Be Mindful of Your Meals
Sticky foods will become trapped between your teeth and can be hard to remove. Hard and crunchy foods can also damage your teeth if you bite down too hard, and this can cause a dental emergency. Try to avoid foods that require excessive force to chew.
Consider Sealants
Sealants are often used as preventative solutions for children but are also effective for adults. They are transparent, and this plastic covering is painted on the chewing surface of the teeth to prevent food debris from becoming trapped inside. This is especially great for patients whose molars have deep grooves and for seniors who have difficulty flossing and brushing their teeth correctly.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Routine dental visits must be part of your dental hygiene routine, and most patients will have to visit the dentist twice a year for dental exams and professional cleanings. Dentists have the right tools and equipment to remove the stubborn plaque your toothbrush cannot eliminate. Failing to attend your dental appointments can put you at risk of cavities and gum disease, and you may need to visit an emergency dentist in the future if oral health issues become severe.
Take Your Vitamins!
Taking vitamins daily will help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Vitamins can also help your teeth and gums resist decay and injury. Vitamins A, B and C are all great for gum health and will also reduce the risk of periodontal disease. Vitamin D is great for strengthening and stabilizing your teeth, and remembering to take your vitamins can prevent trips to an emergency dentist in the future!
Conclusion
Are you looking for an emergency dentist in Scarborough? Hillsborough Dental is always ready to help! You never know when a dental emergency will strike, and if you are ever in this situation, do not panic and contact our office right away. Our dentists understand how painful dental emergencies can be and will provide you with the best treatment to eliminate pain and long-term damage.
Whether you need to schedule a routine cleaning or want to discuss tooth restoration options, you can contact us at any time to schedule an appointment! Call 416-289-7373 today.
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