Dental Articles - London

Dental emergencies can be painful and stressful. The good news is that you can take steps to reduce your risk. Here’s how to keep your smile healthy and avoid unexpected dental problems.

1. Take Care of Your Teeth Every Day

Good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent dental emergencies. Follow these simple habits:

• Brush for two minutes, twice a day.
• Floss at least once a day.
• Get professional dental hygiene & cleaning every six months.

Brushing and flossing remove plaque, a sticky layer of bacteria that can lead to dental cavities and gum disease. Regular dental cleanings help remove plaque buildup and allow your dentist to catch small issues before they become serious problems.

2. Use Fluoride Products

Fluoride helps strengthen your teeth and prevent cavities. To give your teeth extra protection:

• Use fluoride toothpaste.
• Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash.
• Drink fluoridated water if available.

3. Be Mindful of Your Diet

What you eat and drink affects your oral health. Sugary foods and drinks can lead to plaque buildup and tooth decay. To protect your teeth:

• Limit sugary snacks and beverages.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.

4. Manage Stress to Protect Your Teeth

Stress can impact your oral health in unexpected ways. It may cause you to:

• Clench or grind your teeth, leading to jaw pain or cracked teeth.
• Chew on hard objects like pens or ice.
• Crave sugary foods that contribute to cavities.

If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend a custom TMD/Bruxism night guard to protect your teeth while you sleep.

5. Don’t Ignore Dental Pain

If you have a toothache or other dental discomfort, see your dentist as soon as possible. Pain is a warning sign that something is wrong. Early treatment can prevent the need for more serious procedures later, such as a root canal treatment or tooth extraction.

Why Prevention Matters

Preventive care may require an investment of time and money, but it’s usually much less costly than emergency treatments. Regular dental check-ups and dental exams help you avoid the need for major dental work in the future.

Keep Your Smile Healthy

Our London, dentists are here to help you protect your teeth and prevent dental emergencies. If you need preventive care or have a dental emergency, call MEK Dentall at (519) 668-7635 or contact us online.

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Dentist London