Knocked-out teeth. Loose dental crowns. Large cavities. Not only are these dental injuries painful to experience, but they are stressful to handle, even if you have a great dentist. That’s why it’s so important to prioritize preventive care! If you’re not sure where to start, keep reading for a few tips on how to prevent common dental emergencies like these.
1. Wear a Mouthguard to Protect Your Smile
Whether you like to play football or you enjoy staying active by riding your bike, lifting weights, or jogging, you need to wear a mouthguard to protect your smile. If you don’t have one already, then schedule an appointment with your dentist! That way, they can create a custom one that is effective and fits comfortably.
2. Be Mindful of What You Eat
Eating nutrient-dense foods, like cooked carrots, fresh peaches, and cottage cheese, will benefit your oral and overall health. However, protecting your smile isn’t just about what you eat; it’s about what you don’t eat. Hard pretzels, taffy, and peanut brittle are a few foods patients are encouraged to avoid since they can lead to chips, cracks, and cavities.
3. Schedule a Dental Visit Every Six Months
Biannual dental visits are crucial for several reasons, starting with the fact that routine cleanings help prevent plaque and tartar buildup. They also ensure your dentist can periodically check for oral cancer, tooth decay, gum disease, and the like. If they notice anything concerning, they can bring it to your attention and discuss your treatment options before the root of the problem gets any worse.
4. Take Great Care of Your Smile At Home
Of course, taking care of your smile on a daily basis is just as important. That starts with the basics, like brushing for two minutes each morning and evening. However, it doesn’t end there. To keep your smile happy and healthy, you also need to floss every night before bed, rinse with an ADA-approved mouthwash consistently, and replace your toothbrush (or toothbrush head) every 3-4 months.
5. Break Any Existing Bad Habits
In short, smoking isn’t the only habit that can negatively impact your oral health. Biting your nails, chewing on ice cubes, and using your teeth as tools can lead to painful dental injuries as well. So, if you haven’t already, put a plan in place to quit. If you need any recommendations or assistance, don’t hesitate to ask our dental team!
About the Practice
One of our goals at Sturbridge Dental is to be there for our patients when they need us most. That’s why we offer same-day emergency appointments! We also offer oral dental sedation and welcome several financial solutions. That way, getting the care you need is as stress-free as possible. If you are dealing with considerable sensitivity, discomfort, or pain, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us via our website or by phone at (508) 347-9336.