Experiencing a dental emergency can be stressful, painful and costly. But many dental emergencies can actually be avoided through proactive care and smart oral health habits. Your trusted dentists at Northern Dental Centre want to see fewer patients requiring urgent dental treatment. That's why we've put together these professional tips for preventing painful dental emergencies and maintaining your oral health.

Get Professional Cleanings Every 6 Months

Regular dental cleanings and checkups are essential for preventing minor issues from becoming major emergencies. Calculus and plaque buildup fuels gum disease, infections, cavities and other problems that can suddenly require urgent or invasive treatment. Consistent cleanings remove harmful buildup and allow dentists to spot issues early. Don't skip your biannual dental visits.

Brush and Floss Properly Daily

While professional cleanings are crucial, you play an equally important role through daily home care. Ensure you brush thoroughly for two minutes, twice per day, angling your soft-bristled brush bristles towards the gum line. And remember to floss daily as brushing alone misses crucial areas between teeth. Flossing reduces your risk of cavities and gum disease.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste and Mouthwash

Fluoride strengthens enamel to make teeth more decay resistant. Look for the ADA seal on fluoride toothpastes and mouthwashes. Use fluoride rinses at a different time than brushing to allow extended fluoride exposure. Your dentist may recommend prescription strength fluoride products if you are highly cavity prone.

Watch What You Eat and Drink

Avoiding sugary foods and beverages helps prevent cavities from developing and requiring fillings. Drink water instead of pop, juice or sports drinks. Limit snacking throughout the day and stick to tooth-healthy foods like cheese, nuts or veggies. Curb alcohol use which dries out the mouth. Follow a balanced, low-sugar diet for optimal dental health.

Wear a Mouthguard for Sports

Mouthguards protect teeth from traumatic injuries during sports and vigorous activities. Custom-made guards fit the best. But even over-the-counter, moldable options are better than nothing. Wearing a mouthguard prevents cracked teeth, knock outs and jaw injuries that lead to complex, costly dental repairs. Protect those pearly whites.

Stop Habits That Wear Down Teeth

Tooth grinding, nail biting and using teeth as tools can crack teeth or damage the biting surfaces. Breaking these habits now prevents the need for crowns, veneers or dental restorations later on. Ask your dentist for help addressing teeth grinding with a custom nightguard. And find alternatives for unhealthy oral habits.

Get Dental Injuries Treated Immediately

Should a dental accident occur, it's critical to get immediate treatment to save the tooth. If a tooth is knocked out, handle it carefully by the crown (not root), rinse if dirty but do not scrub, and place in milk until you can see an emergency dentist ASAP. The sooner it is re-implanted, the better the prognosis. Quick action prevents infection and necessity for an implant.

See Your Dentist for Any Oral Changes

See your dentist right away if you notice sudden temperature or pressure sensitivity, chipped teeth, gum swelling, loose teeth, or other odd symptoms. Early intervention can minimize damage, discomfort and complications. Don't delay. Even if pain subsides spontaneously, the underlying cause likely still needs treatment.

Maintain a Proactive Approach

Preventing emergencies means maintaining vigilant home care, eating healthy and avoiding harmful habits. It also requires seeing your dentist regularly for cleanings, taking their advice, and requesting help minimizing your personal risk factors early on. An ounce of prevention is truly worth a pound of cure when it comes to avoiding dental disasters.

Call Us Today to Stay Ahead of Dental Issues

Don't gamble with your oral health. For tips tailored to your unique needs, schedule your next cleaning and get preventive advice from our Grande Prairie office by calling 780-532-1786. Consistent care combined with daily oral hygiene helps avoid dental emergencies and costly urgent treatment. Protect your smile with prevention.

Website: https://www.northerndentalcentre.ca/