No one ever plans for a dental emergency—but they can happen in an instant. From a cracked tooth during dinner to sudden, severe pain, these situations often strike when you least expect them. While it’s impossible to eliminate the risk entirely, there are plenty of ways to protect your smile and prevent problems before they turn into emergencies.
Here are some dentist-approved habits to help you keep your teeth strong and your stress levels low.
Prioritize Daily Oral Hygiene
The foundation of a healthy smile starts with your daily routine. Brushing twice a day and flossing once daily helps remove the plaque and bacteria that lead to decay and gum disease—two of the most common causes of dental emergencies. When teeth and gums are weakened, you’re more likely to experience painful infections or tooth loss. Using fluoride toothpaste and replacing your toothbrush every three months can make your routine even more effective.
If you tend to rush through brushing, try setting a two-minute timer or using an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer. Those few extra seconds each day can help prevent issues that might send you to the dentist unexpectedly.
Don’t Ignore Minor Dental Problems
It’s easy to dismiss mild discomfort or a small chip, but those minor issues can quickly escalate into major ones. A small cavity can become an abscessed tooth, and a tiny fracture can deepen with repeated chewing pressure. At the first sign of sensitivity, swelling, or damage, call your dentist to schedule an exam. Early treatment not only prevents pain—it can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress later on.
Regular dental checkups are also key. Professional cleanings and exams every six months allow your dentist to catch potential concerns long before they turn into emergencies.
Protect Your Teeth from Injury
Accidents happen, but simple precautions can dramatically lower your risk of dental trauma. If you play contact sports—or even enjoy activities like biking or skateboarding—wear a custom-fitted mouthguard. It cushions your teeth and jaw from impact, reducing the likelihood of chips, fractures, and knocked-out teeth.
You should also avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or bite into hard objects like ice or pens. These habits put unnecessary pressure on your enamel and can cause cracks or breaks without warning.
Watch What You Eat (and Drink)
Your diet plays a bigger role in dental health than you might think. Sugary foods and acidic beverages feed harmful bacteria and erode tooth enamel, making your teeth more vulnerable to decay. Try to limit sodas, sports drinks, and sticky snacks, and drink plenty of water throughout the day. If you do indulge, rinse or brush afterward to minimize the effects.
Adding calcium-rich foods like dairy products, leafy greens, and almonds to your meals can help strengthen enamel and support healthy bone structure around your teeth.
What to Keep in Mind
Preventing dental emergencies is all about consistency. Small, mindful habits—like brushing properly, wearing a mouthguard, and keeping up with checkups—go a long way toward keeping your smile strong and pain-free.
- About the Practice
Patients receive compassionate, comprehensive care at More Dentistry in Matthews. Dr. More and our team offer a wide range of services, including preventive care and emergency dentistry, to help you maintain optimal oral health. Whether you need routine cleanings or immediate relief from a dental emergency, you can trust our team to deliver personalized care that keeps your smile healthy for years to come.
Call us at (704) 844-0556 or request an appointment online.