It can be hard to plan for a dental emergency. After all, how are you supposed to prepare for the many scenarios that leave you looking for urgent oral care? There are some things you can do, and it often all stems back to taking good care of your smile and mouth. By doing these four simple tips, you can do your part in avoiding these scenarios that leave you panicked.
1.) Have Good Oral Hygiene Habits
Plaque and bacteria are often the main cause of dental emergencies. They can lead to cavities or infections, which start minor but can become severe when left untreated. Instead of letting them wreak havoc, just brush twice a day and floss at least once to remove them! You can also rinse with antibacterial mouthwash to ensure you get as much as you can.
2.) Keep Hard and Sugary Foods Off Your Plate
Your diet may also be something to consider! Particularly hard foods are often the cause of sudden chips or cracks. Hard candies, popcorn kernels, hard-shell nuts, and ice are some examples that put a lot of stress on your teeth if you bite them. They can cause damage, so avoid them or cut tougher options (like meat) into smaller chunks.
Sugary treats, as well, aren’t the best when you overindulge in them. In moderation, they are okay, but they can weaken your enamel and cause decay. The bacteria in your mouth produce an acid that erodes this top layer over time when they eat the leftover particles from these items.
3.) Take Proper Safety Measures
If you are sporty or partake in a lot of physical activities, then be sure to take precautions to protect yourself from harm! Padding your body can help you avoid injuries, but it can also do the same for your face! Wear a mouthguard if you know you’re at risk of facial blows. This handy appliance will absorb the hit and protect your teeth from damage or even knocking one out!
4.) Schedule Consistent Visits with Your Dentist
One of the best things you can do is continue visiting your dentist for checkups and cleanings! These visits are great chances to see if there are any changes to your oral health. Your provider will be able to take a look at your gums and teeth, making sure they don’t have any problems affecting them. If they do, then you can get the treatment you need to fix them while they are minor instead of dealing with a big headache later!
About the Practice
At Gabriel A. Nossa D.M.D., you benefit from the skilled expertise of Dr. Nossa and Dr. Jessica Mclivaine. We are here to help the Gainesville community keep their smiles at their best through effective treatments and preventive care. While dental emergencies can happen suddenly, we offer same-day urgent visits to give you the relief you deserve. If you want to know how you can keep your smile strong, schedule an appointment or call our office at (352) 332-8133.