Tips For Preventing A Dental Emergency This Spring
We don’t know how you feel, but we are thrilled that spring has finally arrived! We know that, with the arrival of spring and the warm weather, many of your family members, especially children and teens, are going to be outside playing sports, biking, visiting playgrounds, and much more! We hate to be the bearers of bad news, but nothing can ruin a fun time this spring and the upcoming summer like a dental emergency. As you know, an emergency can happen at any time, but it’s important to know what to do if you or a loved one experiences a dental emergency. Read on to learn more.
What is a Dental Emergency?
It is important to remember that a dental emergency can occur at any time and entail a wide variety of problems. If you or a loved one experiences a dental emergency, it is important to remain calm and assess the situation before taking any action. This includes checking to make sure the teeth are intact and, if there is blood, finding the source. Some issues can be monitored from the comfort of your home, while others require immediate medical attention. Examples of a dental emergency include:
- A cracked or chipped tooth
- A tooth that has been knocked out
- A mouth injury that will not stop bleeding
- A crown or filling that has fallen out
- Excruciating pain
- Trauma to the front teeth and gums
Ways to Prevent a Dental Emergency
Some dental emergencies truly cannot be prevented because they occur due to an accident. However, there are certain precautions you can take to reduce the chances of an emergency occurring. The best way to prevent a dental emergency is to visit our office for routine oral hygiene examinations and cleanings. During these visits, we check your teeth for signs of decay and other problems that require treatment. If dental problems are left to worsen, the chance of experiencing a dental emergency increases.
Many of our patients play sports. Wearing a mouthguard while playing sports is a great way to protect your teeth. We encourage our youth and adult patients to wear a mouthguard during any contact sport or activity where the teeth can become damaged.
If you or a loved one experiences a dental emergency, be sure to contact our office for instructions. Some patients may need to see us immediately, while others may be able to monitor their condition at home. We also recommend calling to schedule a routine hygiene examination and cleaning if it has been some time since your last appointment. We are happy to help patients located in Wilmington, Pike Creek, Newark, DE, and the surrounding areas. Have a happy and healthy spring, and we hope to see you soon!
