Though accidents happen, dental emergencies are never fun. Luckily, there are several ways you can prevent them and lessen your chances of having to spend lots of time and money on costly treatments to repair your teeth. To help you maintain a healthy smile, read on to learn five tips that can prevent a dental emergency in Raleigh.
Tip #1: Brush and Floss Often
Brush twice per day for two minutes. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to strengthen your teeth and protect your enamel from oral bacteria. Overly worn toothbrushes won’t be effective at cleaning your teeth, so make sure to buy a new one every three to four months to ensure that it’s getting the job done. Floss at least once per day to remove plaque and food particles stuck between the teeth. If you aren’t a fan of traditional dental floss, you can also invest in a Waterpik or another kind of water flosser.
Tip #2: Eat Healthier
Eat sweet, carb-heavy, and starchy foods in moderation. These foods feed dangerous oral bacteria and make it easier for cavities to form. Adopt a tooth-healthy diet of lean meats, fish, fresh fruits and vegetables, and low-fat or fat-free dairy products. These foods are tooth-approved and will also help strengthen your enamel and improve your overall oral health.
Tip #3: Wear a Mouthguard
If you’re an athlete who plays contact sports like football and hockey, protect your teeth by wearing a mouthguard. They can be purchased at drug stores, sporting goods stores, or custom-made by your dentist. Mouthguards will protect your teeth and lips if you fall or take a blow to the face.
Tip #4: Stay Hydrated
Dry mouth occurs when you aren’t producing enough saliva and raises your chances of developing tooth decay and gum disease. Drink lots of water and eat sugar-free candy or crisp, fresh fruits and vegetables to keep your mouth moisturized and increase saliva production. These things will also help wash away harmful oral bacteria.
Tip #5: Address Issues ASAP
If you have a damaged tooth, contact your dentist as soon as possible so they can administer treatment. This will raise your chances of being able to save the tooth and will also allow them to prevent other oral health issues from developing.
With these seven tips, you can prevent a dental emergency and maintain a healthy smile. Visit your dentist every six months for regular cleanings and checkups so they can make sure your smile remains lovely and problem-free.
About the Practice
Raleigh is in good hands with Dr. Christine D. Laster and her compassionate team of oral health professionals. They aim to teach patients how to protect their smiles from harm and keep their pearly whites as healthy and bright as possible. Dr. Laster offers quality care to patients of all ages and does everything she can to help them feel comfortable during their appointments. Visit her website or call her office at (919) 787-0355 for more information on how to avoid a dental emergency or to set up an appointment.
