Dental emergencies always seem to happen at the worst possible time—right before a big event, a vacation, or on a weekend when everything’s closed. While not every dental disaster can be avoided, many common emergencies are preventable with just a few simple habits. Keep reading to learn how to protect your teeth and avoid an unexpected trip to the dentist.
Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
Everyone’s ripped open a package or twisted off a bottle cap with their teeth every now and then. But while it seems like a harmless, quick solution for pesky packaging, these small decisions can lead to big problems. Using your teeth like tools can cause chips, cracks, or even fractures that can quickly become infected. Always reach for the scissors or bottle opener instead!
Wear Mouth Protection
Whether you’re on the field or grinding your teeth at night, mouth protection can save your smile. Sports-related dental injuries are very common and preventable with a mouthguard, even a simple “boil and bite” model. Nightguards, on the other hand, protect against teeth grinding (bruxism), which can wear down your enamel or even cause tiny fractures over time.
Steer Away from Hard Snacks
Hard candies, popcorn kernels, and even ice cubes can do serious damage to your teeth if you’re not careful. One bite down on the wrong thing can lead to a chipped tooth or broken crown. If you love crunchy snacks, try switching to safer (and healthier) alternatives like sliced apples, carrot sticks, or softer crackers.
Keep Up with Routine Checkups
Your dentist can catch small issues before they become emergencies. Regular cleanings and exams help detect weak spots, small cracks, or early signs of infection. Catching these early can prevent pain, swelling, and surprise root canals down the road, saving you time, money, and stress.
Pain is your body’s way of saying that something isn’t right. A dull ache or sensitivity might not seem like it needs attention right away, but it could be the start of a bigger issue. If something feels off, call your dentist sooner rather than later. Delaying treatment can turn a small cavity into a full-blown emergency.
About the Practice
Dr. Justin Cooper and Dr. Mitchel Harper are your passionate and professional dental team at Harper Dental. For many years, they’ve been saving smiles with gentle and effective techniques, helping our patients preserve their natural teeth. If you’re in pain due to a toothache or gum issue, our friendly team is standing by to see you. Call (479) 452-1638 to schedule an emergency appointment with us or visit our website to explore other services.