Though prevention is a major tenet of good dental care,
emergencies (by definition) aren’t always preventable. They also tend to
involve damage to varying degrees to your teeth and their supportive
structures, making dental emergencies a common
cause of permanent tooth loss. Fortunately, you can prepare yourself accidental
damage, even if you can’t prevent it, and maximize your chances of retaining
your healthy tooth structure in the face of an emergency.
Minimize Danger
When in good condition, the enamel that surrounds and
protects your teeth is the most resilient substance your body produces. It’s
designed to protect your teeth’s more vulnerable structures and tissues from
infectious bacteria while effectively absorbing the pressures of biting and
chewing. When enamel is weakened by bacteria-produced acid, your teeth are more
likely to sustain irreversible damage. You can keep enamel strong by;
·
Brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day to
control acid-producing bacteria
·
Consuming plenty of calcium and phosphate, which
are the main building blocks of tooth enamel
·
Attend a dental checkup and cleaning every six
months so Dr. Smith can assess the health and strength of your teeth
Keep Your Dentist’s Number Close
When an emergency occurs, such as a sensitive, cracked,
broken, or knocked-out tooth, time is of the essence. If the tooth is
completely avulsed (knocked out of its socket), then Dr. Smith may be able to
save the tooth if you receive treatment within the hour. Save our office’s
number, found at the bottom, so you can call Dr. Smith immediately if you need
emergency dental attention.
How to Act in an Emergency
If your sustains damage, rinse your mouth carefully with
warm water, especially around the tooth in question. If one or more pieces have
broken off, collect them (if possible) and carefully rinse them, as well.
Collect a completely knocked out tooth by its crown only; don’t touch or scrub
the roots or any loose fibers. If you can’t place your tooth back in the
socket, then place it in a small container of milk and bring it with you to
your emergency appointment. For more information, read our tips on handling a dental emergency, or speak
with Dr. Smith today.
About Your Grand Prairie Dentist:
Dr. Quinn Smith is a well-respected and highly experienced
general, cosmetic, restorative, and implant dentist in Grand Prairie, TX. He
takes a patient-first approach that starts from the moment patients enter
our Pecan Tree Dental office, and he
offers a three-year guarantee on all dental work that he performs. Whether you’re
a new or returning patient, you can schedule a consultation or your next
appointment with Dr. Smith by contacting
us at (972) 262-5111.
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