There are many ways you can prevent accidents in your daily life. Stopping at red lights, wearing oven mitts when baking, and looking both ways when you cross the street are all common safety precautions that can help you avoid a trip to the emergency room. But what about when it comes to your smile? Although it’s impossible to avoid every dental emergency, there is still plenty that can be done to prevent some common oral health problems. Here are some tips to help your smile safe from dental danger!
Routine Oral Hygiene
Maintaining a comprehensive oral hygiene routine is one of the easiest ways to prevent dental emergencies. Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss once a day, and use mouthwash as needed. Furthermore, be sure to see your dentist every six months for your regular, biannual exam and cleaning appointments, so that he can keep a close eye on your oral health and help prevent any unexpected dental emergencies from occurring.
Mouthguards & Sportsguards
Do you grind your teeth? Do you play a sport? Both of these scenarios call for a mouthguard. If you suffer from bruxism (grinding) the wear and tear your teeth put on each other can cause damage like chips and cracks while you sleep. For athletes, studies have shown that wearing a sportsguard while you play can protect your teeth 60 times greater than not wearing any dental protection at all.
Use the Right Tools for the Job
Sure, it can be a lot faster to tear into that packaging with your teeth than it may be to locate a working pair of scissors, but its also a quicker way to have a dental emergency. Your teeth were only designed to chew food, not to open containers or trim fingernails. Taking a few extra moments to locate the right tool for the job may take a little longer, but it will save you time and money at the emergency dentist!
Watch Your Diet
All foods are typically okay in moderation, but eating a diet heavy in sugar, carbohydrates, and anything sticky or excessively crunchy can put your teeth at risk for cavities or other damage. Thus, do your best to eat plenty of nutritious foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Seal the Deal
Does it seem like you’re always getting cavities? Do you have trouble areas that are hard to reach when brushing and flossing? You may be an excellent candidate for dental sealants. Though they’re more commonly given to children, this treatment can also benefit adults who have teeth that are at higher risk for cavities and decay. Speak to your dentist to see if dental sealants are right for your smile.
Remember, while it’s not always possible to prevent every dental emergency, there is still plenty you can do to lower your risk of some of the preventable ones. Should you notice any changes in your oral health, please don’t wait until your regularly scheduled dental appointment for help. Reach out to your emergency dentist today and restore your beautiful, pain-free smile today!
About Our Practice
For over 25 years, Coats Dental Group of Longmont has been serving the community by giving them bright, beautiful, healthy smiles! Whether you need a regular preventive checkup and cleaning or are in pain from an unexpected dental emergency, our father-and-son team of talented dentists Dr. Brian Coats and Dr. Kevin Coats are here to help. For an urgent appointment, please call our office directly at 303-776-4090 and we’ll be happy to restore your beautiful, pain-free smile!