How Do You Prepare for a Dental Emergency

Do you prepare for a dental emergency in Birmingham? Most people don’t. They only decide what to do next when it happens. Although it can occur at any time when you least expect them to, the good news is that you can prepare for dental emergencies. One way of preparing yourself is by creating a plan of action.    

Preparing for Dental Emergencies

Find an Emergency Dentist   

Even though you are in good oral health, it doesn’t hurt to ask if your current dentist offers emergency dental care. If they do, ask for their number and save it in your phone contacts, but if they don’t, take time to find an emergency dentist near you.  

You may also ask your dentist for recommendations. If an accident happens, it’s best to know who to call rather than waste your time looking up phone numbers in the directory.  

Preventing Dental Emergencies

• Did you know that you can take steps to reduce your risk of going through a dental crisis? Dental health experts recommend practicing proper dental hygiene by brushing and flossing your teeth daily. The ADA suggests you brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Flossing must be done once before bedtime. Your teeth become strong and healthy when you diligently follow an oral care routine. In addition, you should visit your dentist yearly for routine exams and teeth cleanings.
• You must also limit your consumption of sugary food and drinks. When you consume food and beverages that contain sugars, the bacteria in your mouth will interact with the sugars to produce acids. These acids will result in enamel erosion and cavity formation.  
• Unhealthy habits can also cause your teeth to chip and crack. Examples are biting into hard objects like pens, popcorn kernels, hard candy, and ice. Although your enamel is the hardest tissue in your body, it can still get damaged when exposed to excessive pressure.  

• Wearing a mouth guard while playing contact sports also lessens your chances of getting your teeth chipped or cracked. These sports activities will predispose you to tooth and mouth injuries. Getting a mouth guard is significantly cheaper compared to paying for restorative treatments.

What to Do During an Accident

• The first and most important thing to do is to stay calm no matter the circumstance. If you panic, you won’t be able to think straight, and you may not be able to make the right decision. This is why it’s vital to have an emergency plan ready.  

• When dealing with a knocked-out tooth, call your emergency dentist, but while waiting, you should keep the tooth moist by placing it back inside the socket. If that’s not possible, you can put it in a clean glass of milk. Keeping it moist is crucial to make the tooth viable. Avoid touching or scrubbing the root.
• A chipped or cracked tooth is also considered a dental emergency. If you can locate the fragments, keep them and place them in a glass of milk and take them to your dentist. When you’re in pain, apply a cold compress to the affected side of your face. You may also take over-the-counter pain medications to make you feel more comfortable.

Do You Need Dental Emergency in Birmingham Care?

If you are looking for a reliable emergency dentist, we’re here for you. We strive to provide you with the best dental services at Church Family Dental. Our goal is to give you the absolute best experience from top to bottom. Our dental office is fully equipped with state-of-the-art technology to give you a beautiful smile. Contact us today!