Protect your Teeth!

Adult teeth are the last pair we will have! So, keeping our gums and teeth healthy is very important. Chewing or biting down on hard objects such as ice cubes, pencils, and nuts can cause tooth fractures. Here are some precautions you can take to avoid injuries to your teeth:

  • Avoid chewing ice, popcorn kernels, and hard candy, all of which can crack a tooth.
  • NEVER use your teeth to cut things; use scissors.
  • Do not use your teeth to open items.
  • Use a mouth guard when participating in sports or recreational activities.

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oral care during pregnancy

Mouth Guards

Using a mouth guard is effective in reducing sports injuries to the mouth. Made of soft plastic or laminate, mouth guards prevent injuries incurred when you receive contact to the face or mouth. In addition to your teeth, they also protect your gums, cheeks, and jaw.

Habits such as clenching and grinding (known as bruxism) can compromise the natural shape of a tooth. Clenching and grinding are common involuntary reactions when we are put under physical or mental stress. If you are aware of this habit, be sure to talk to your dental provider. Your dental provider can customize a mouth guard for you or share information about other available products.

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Night Guards

A night guard might be recommended if you clench or grind your teeth in your sleep. Usually, a nighttime grinder is unaware of this habit until it is pointed out by a dental professional and/or another person. Your dental provider can customize a mouth guard for you or share information about other available products.

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Injured Adult Tooth

If an injury results in your adult (permanent) tooth, such as knocked out or chipping, you must act fast! Follow the steps listed below.

A chipped or broken tooth:

  • Collect all pieces of the tooth.
  • Rinse the mouth with warm water.
  • Call your dental provider right away and ask for an emergency visit.

A permanent tooth was knocked out:

  • Bite down on sterile gauze to stop the bleeding.
  • Grab the injured tooth by the crown (white, chewing surface of the tooth).
  • Place in a cup of milk or your own saliva. Do not place in tap water!
  • Call a dental provider right away to schedule a visit.

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