How to Prevent the Need for Emergency Dentistry: Edmond, OK, Emergency Dentist Explains

Nov 16, 2023

Who among us hasn’t wished at one point or another that we could turn back time and undo the preventable misery caused by not taking better care of our teeth? We’ve all known someone who has had to endure the pain, financial burden, and emotional worry of a dental emergency, when in hindsight, it may have been something manageable if only they had taken some simple preventive measures. 

With insight from our experienced emergency dentist, Dr. Brian Howell, you can learn how to prevent dental emergencies and how to proactively seek emergency dentistry in Edmond, OK, before more significant problems arise.

Practice Daily Dental Hygiene

Dental hygiene is the cornerstone of healthy teeth and gums. Practicing excellent dental hygiene can prevent or reduce the risk of severe dental problems and ultimately keep you away from emergency dentistry. Committing to brushing your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and rinsing with mouthwash, you can keep your smile healthy between dental visits.

It is essential to brush twice a day for at least two minutes, floss at least once a day, and rinse with mouthwash for added protection. Moreover, visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings is crucial to ensure that any underlying dental issues are detected early and treated appropriately. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, and by maintaining a high level of dental hygiene, you set yourself up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Maintain a Balanced Diet

Maintaining a balanced diet is not only beneficial for your overall health, but it can also help prevent emergency dentistry trips. When we consume too many sugary or acidic foods, it can cause lasting damage to our teeth and gums. 

On the other hand, a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help strengthen our teeth and gums, making them more resistant to potential damage. By incorporating a balanced, diverse diet as a part of a healthy lifestyle, it’s possible to escape the need for cavity and gum disease complications, which could warrant a need for emergency dentistry.

Schedule Regular Dental Appointments

While a good rule of thumb is to schedule dental appointments every six months, those at a higher risk of oral disease (including pregnant women, smokers, and those with diabetes) may need to see their dentist every three months or so.

Many mistakenly believe that they only need to see a dentist when they have a problem, but that’s not true. Regular dental checkups and cleanings can detect issues before they become an issue. This is especially important considering how expensive and painful emergency dentistry can be. By keeping up with preventative care, you’ll save time, money, and discomfort in the long run. 

Find Emergency Dentistry Services in Edmond, OK

In conclusion, excellent oral hygiene, in combination with a healthy, balanced diet and regular dental cleanings and checkups, can help protect your teeth and gums for years to come. This consistent pattern of oral care can be the key to avoiding emergency dentistry. If a dental emergency does arise, don’t hesitate to contact our Edmond, OK, dental office by calling  (405) 513-8516.

Our staff is standing by, Monday through Thursday, ready to provide you with the assistance you need when it’s most needed. Dr. Howell and his team provide patients with comprehensive care to prevent emergencies from occurring in the first place, as well as same-day dental care when they do happen. Schedule a visit today and join us on the journey toward achieving excellent oral health!