Maintain a Thorough Oral Hygiene Routine::
Brushing your teeth twice a day for two full minutes, flossing at least once a day, and rinsing with an ADA-approved mouthwash is the most effective way to prevent tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems from developing. Toothaches often develop as a result of poor oral hygiene and if left untreated, can lead to serious infection and ultimately, root canal therapy or tooth extraction. To prevent this, make sure you are abiding by your dentist’s guidelines in caring for your teeth and gums.
Avoid Eating Hard Foods or Chewing on Ice:
Hard, crunchy foods may taste good, but if you are not careful, you could easily crack, chip, or break a tooth. Not to mention, if you enjoy chewing on ice or inanimate objects like pens or pencils while at your desk, you will put yourself at risk for serious dental injury. Instead, try keeping sugarless gum in your desk or pocket to chew on.
Protect Your Smile:
Whether it is sports or teeth grinding, a mouthguard can be extremely beneficial at preventing excessive wear and tear or serious injury to your teeth and soft oral tissues. Sports-related injuries are one of the biggest causes of dental emergencies, so making sure you are equipped with a custom-made mouthguard can lessen your chances of having to make a trip to the dentist’s office should you suffer a hard hit during a game.
If it’s not sports but bruxism that has you seeking a mouthguard, these oral devices can prevent your teeth from coming into contact with each other as well as eliminate chronic jaw pain.
Do Not Use Your Teeth as Tools:
Instead of thinking your teeth are these magical tools that can open anything, opt for scissors or another actual tool. Your teeth are designed to cut and tear through food and nothing else. While they are strong and durable, they can easily chip or break if too much force is applied. Not to mention should they slip, resulting in soft tissue lacerations and other serious problems.