An accidental fall while riding your bike or an unexpected dental injury on the basketball court are the kind of dental emergencies that may not be preventable. While there are steps you can take to reduce your risk in these situations, the likelihood of something going wrong remains low. However, some emergencies can be avoided by changing certain lifestyle habits and recommitting to better oral health. If you want to protect your smile from sudden injury, here are 4 tips to keep in mind.
Commit to Proper Oral Hygiene
Brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush is essential. Flossing before bed and rinsing to flush away remnants left by brushing and flossing are equally important. Maintaining a good oral hygiene routine can lower your risk of cavities and gum disease, both of which can lead to severe toothaches, infections, and other dental emergencies.
Get Routine Dental Checkups & Cleanings
Seeing your dentist biannually (twice a year) for general checkups and cleanings remains the primary preventive solution for better oral health. When combined with a good oral hygiene routine, the two can ensure a cavity-free smile throughout the year. These visits also allow your dentist to carefully examine your teeth, gums, and oral structures for anything that might require restorative treatment. Getting ahead of the problem before it starts is the best way to avoid a dental emergency down the road.
Be Mindful of What You Eat
Sugary and starchy foods and beverages can wreak havoc on your oral health, which is why, if you want to avoid a dental emergency, you should be mindful about what you eat. Swapping out unhealthy ingredients for those rich in vitamins and minerals can positively impact your teeth and gums. Everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to lean proteins, low-fat dairy, and leafy greens can improve your oral health and help prevent toothaches that may indicate a more serious infection.
Drink A Lot of Water
If you commit to drinking lots of water instead of soda, fruit juices, energy drinks, etc., you will not only remain hydrated, which is good for your overall health, but you’ll also keep your smile better protected. A dry mouth is a haven for harmful bacteria, which can adhere to tooth enamel and break it down over time. However, drinking plenty of water flushes out debris and food particles and keeps salivary glands working, effectively neutralizing acids for a healthier smile.
Give your smile the attention it deserves. With these helpful tips, you can avoid the emergency dentist’s office and instead spend more time showing off your healthy, beautiful smile to those around you.
About Grand Dental – Oz Park
At Grand Dental – Oz Park, we understand that accidents can happen, but our dentists strive to minimize dental emergencies by offering helpful tips to keep smiles protected year-round. Safe, immediate care is here should a serious problem occur, but we aim to help patients avoid toothaches, infections, and other similar issues related to poor oral health. Don’t want to spend your time seeing an emergency dentist? Visit our website or call (773) 871-3393 to schedule an appointment.