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Dental emergencies come in all shapes and sizes. Some are minor and can be easily fixed at home. Others are more serious and require a visit to our office. Unfortunately, some of these emergencies happen when least expected. Here are a few tips to prevent dental emergencies. 

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is one of the most important things you can do to prevent a dental emergency. Brushing removes plaque from the surface of your teeth, helping to prevent decay. In addition, brushing your teeth regularly can help to prevent the need for emergency dental treatment.

• Floss your teeth at least once a day

Flossing is the best way to remove plaque from between teeth, especially around and below the gum line. Plaque that forms around these areas can be hard to reach with a toothbrush, and over time, it can harden into tartar.

Tartar is much more difficult to remove than plaque, and if it is not removed, it can cause gum disease. Gum disease can cause oral pain, bleeding, and infections. In fact, many people who lose teeth to periodontal disease say they did not even know they had gum disease.

• See your dentist regularly

The best way to avoid dental emergencies is to take good care of your teeth and gums. You should also be proactive by scheduling regular dental cleanings and checkups. During your dental cleanings, your hygienist can remove the plaque and tartar buildup that you can’t reach with brushing and flossing.

The more often you visit your dentist, the greater chance you have of catching a dental emergency early. Early intervention is essential to saving a tooth and, often, avoiding more expensive restorative treatments.

• Prevent oral piercings

Oral piercings can lead to gum recession and cracked teeth. These complications can cause pain, tooth sensitivity, and infections. In addition, oral piercings can lead to chipped teeth and traumatic injuries. Some piercings can even cause nerve damage and bone loss.

While oral piercings may seem harmless, they can create problems for your smile. Talk to your dentist before piercing your teeth or gums. You may be able to avoid complications by waiting.

• Avoid chewing ice or hard candy

Chewing on hard foods can actually damage your enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to chips and cracks. Instead of chewing on hard foods, try drinking your water, chewing sugar-free gum, or eating soft snacks such as cheese, nuts, or fruit.

For more dental tips, consult our dentists at City Family Dental & Implant Center. You can call us at (209) 554-1700 or visit our clinic located at 1317 Oakdale Rd Suite 310, Modesto, California 95355.