No one starts their day expecting to have to make a visit to the emergency dentist, but sometimes life throws curveballs that result in oral trauma. While every situation is unique, a dental emergency is typically defined as an event or condition that results in the high likelihood of tooth loss, excessive and extreme bleeding, and/or severe tooth or jaw pain. For times when these curveballs are unforeseeable or unpreventable, it is helpful to have the name and contact information of an emergency dental office. Otherwise, individuals should try to take steps to avoid oral trauma entirely.
There is merit to the saying, “accidents happen.” However, the truth is that many accidents are preventable. This is particularly true when it comes to emergency dental issues. Below are four ways individuals can prevent oral trauma and avoid having to make a visit to a local emergency dentist.
Many people think of emergency dental issues as something that occurs suddenly and violently, such as a knocked-out tooth. While many issues are the result of blunt force, just as many, if not more, are the result of neglect. Tooth pain, crumbling fillings, sensitivity, bleeding gums, and other symptoms are nothing to ignore. If certain conditions are allowed to progress, they can turn into painful, severe, costly, and possibly life-threatening problems. To prevent molehills from becoming mountains, pay attention to any changes in gums, teeth, and overall oral health.
Again, many dental emergencies are the result of neglect. Patients can prevent gum disease, decay, infection, and other urgent issues from arising by brushing, flossing, and swishing with mouthwash twice daily. Maintaining twice-yearly dental appointments with a general or family dentist can also help prevent plaque buildup and catch potentially serious issues early on.
Sports are one of the most common causes of oral trauma. Though contact sports such as football and hockey are more likely to result in chipped, cracked, or lost teeth, just about any recreational activity can put a person at risk for mouth trauma. For instance, a baseball player may receive a pitch to the mouth that knocks out a tooth. A soccer player may trip and crack a tooth, or a mountain climber may slip on a rock and break a tooth. Active individuals should make mouthguards a part of their regular uniforms to prevent costly injuries.
Ice, hard candies, bones in meat, popcorns, pits, hard bread, and other hard foods are top culprits for broken and chipped teeth. Ideally, people should avoid these foods altogether, but at the very least, they should chew with caution when indulging. People should also be careful when eating with silverware, drinking from glass, and using the teeth for anything other than eating.
Reducing trips to the emergency dentist does not have to be difficult but just takes following the above tips. Accidents can still happen, however, so if you do need emergency dental attention, call a local emergency dentist right away.
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