How Can You Prevent a Dental Emergency?
Dental emergencies can happen anytime, but did you know that most of them can be prevented? Don’t wait. Take action today to avoid dental emergencies altogether. If, however, you do experience a dental emergency, our team at Roam Dental is here to help. We are equipped and fully prepared to offer the exceptional, compassionate care you deserve!
What Constitutes a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is a situation requiring immediate dental care to relieve you of intense pain, save a damaged tooth, treat an infection, or stop bleeding. Examples of common dental emergencies include the following:
- A severe, persistent toothache
- A knocked-out, dislodged, loose, or broken tooth
- An infected tooth or an abscess
- Swelling of the face or jaw
- A sore or lesion around the lips, gums, palate, floor of the mouth, or tongue
- Injury to the lips, gums, or tongue
- A lost or broken crown or filling
- Broken dentures
What Should You Do if You Experience a Dental Emergency?
If you suspect that you or a loved one are experiencing a dental emergency, make sure to contact our office right away. We will offer care tips until you get to your emergency appointment. If you call after hours, our on-call emergency dentist will provide guidance to help stabilize your condition until we can see you. If you have uncontrolled bleeding or severe facial pain or swelling, or if you experience a life-threatening emergency, please call 911 for immediate assistance.
How Can You Lower the Risk of Dental Emergencies?
Here are some ways you can lower your risk of dental emergencies:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Maintaining meticulous oral hygiene practices is one of the best ways to prevent dental emergencies. Regular brushing and flossing help lower the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, two leading causes of dental emergencies and tooth loss in adults.
- Make Smile-Healthy Food Choices: Limit the consumption of sugary, sticky, starchy, acidic, or hard foods, which can damage your teeth and gums and lead to dental emergencies. Instead, reach out for smile-healthy choices, including fresh fruits or vegetables.
- Drink Plenty of Water: Water helps flush away food debris and bacteria and helps prevent plaque buildup. It also keeps you from developing dry mouth, which can increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
- Wear a Bite Guard: If you grind your teeth in your sleep or engage in contact sports, consider wearing a night guard or sports mouthguard to protect your smile. We’re pleased to offer custom mouthguards for superior comfort and protection.
- Maintain Regular Dental Visits: Regular dental cleanings help remove plaque and tartar deposits from your teeth and gum line, lowering your risk of tooth decay or gum disease. If we uncover early signs of problems, we will treat them immediately to prevent them from progressing and requiring emergency care.
- Address Any Dental Concerns Right Away: If you develop pain or see any changes between routine dental appointments, don’t wait. Contact us immediately so we can address your concerns and restore your healthy smile.
- Be Proactive: If you’re planning to go on vacation, schedule a dental exam and cleaning. Our team will ensure your smile is healthy and sound so you can enjoy time away without worrying about dealing with a dental emergency. Don’t forget to pack your dental essentials, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, and dental floss. If you wear a night guard or bite guard, make sure to take it along.
Emergency Dentistry Near Me in Shelby Township, MI
Visit Roam Dental to learn more about maintaining a healthy smile. Whether you require preventive care or emergency dentistry, you can count on Dr. Barbu and his team for an experience that exceeds your expectations. We invite you to call 586-500-ROAM to schedule your appointment or book one online today! We look forward to caring for all your dental needs.