You should always know an emergency dentist, so you do not panic and stress when you have a dental issue that needs immediate attention. Being in a position to contact an emergency dentist quickly can ensure you receive treatment faster. You may need to seek San Antonio emergency dentistry services if you have a toothache, broken teeth, lost a crown or filling, abscess, bleeding, or broken braces. For instance, the wire or bracket of your dental braces can break, leading to discomfort as they poke your gums and cheeks and less effective orthodontic treatment.

You may have damaged braces due to mouth injury, consumption of hard or crunchy foods,  and chewing hard objects. You will also require emergency dental care for severe oral pain and inflammation. A toothache may come from tooth decay and cavities or a knocked-out tooth.

Subsequently, the tips below may help prevent or minimize your chances of visiting a dentist for emergency treatment.

  1. Wear mouthguards

Also called mouth protectors, mouthguards can help cushion your mouth and face against an accidental injury to your teeth, lips, face, and jaw. A mouthguard often covers your upper teeth and protects the soft tissues of lips, tongue, and cheek lining.

Wear a mouthguard when playing contact sports such as martial arts, football, hockey, and boxing. You are also at risk of receiving an incidental impact on your face and mouth when you engage in recreational activities like skiing, mountain biking, and snowboarding.

  1. Practice regular dental hygiene

You can avoid unnecessary dental emergencies by practicing healthy oral hygiene regularly. That involves brushing your teeth at least twice a day for about two minutes, flossing daily, and going for frequent dental exams. Use fluoride toothpaste for brushing your teeth as it has minerals that can strengthen your tooth to prevent decay and cavities.

Brushing and flossing are essential for discouraging the buildup of plaque and tartar, and harmful bacteria inside your mouth.

  1. Foods and beverages

Avoid consuming beverages and foods that contain high concentrations of sugar and acid. For instance, the high sugary content in snacks, soda, and fruit juice makes the oral environment more acidic. The harmful bacterias in your mouth rely on sugar to produce their energy, releasing a weak acid as a waste or by-product.

When Should I See a Dentist? (And What Should I Expect?)

A weak acid in your mouth will attack and weaken your enamel, resulting in tooth damage and cavities.

  1. Manage stress

If you have high-stress levels, you may repeatedly chew or bite hard objects like pencils, nails, or pen caps, which may cause jaw pain and other dental issues gradually.

Also, constant clenching or grinding of your teeth at night may eventually cause dental issues requiring emergency treatment.

Avoid grinding or using your teeth as a tool or as a third hand to hold, carry, or tear items.

  1. Regular dental visits

Regularly visiting your dentist can enable the elimination of stubborn plaque and tartar and the identification and prevention of potential signs of dental issues.

Contact AB Dental & Oral Surgery today to schedule an appointment with an emergency dentistry specialist.