Who's at risk for a dental emergency?

Who is most at risk for a dental emergency?

We all experience difficulties in life that put us at risk for dental emergencies. In actuality, dental emergencies can arise at any time and for a variety of reasons. Here are a few typical reasons why young people, adults, and seniors experience dental emergencies.

Children

Children frequently lead active lifestyles that include physical activity but also expose them to risks like sports injuries. They should also be careful about how frequently they consume sugary snacks because these can contribute to early cavities and tooth decay.

Injuries to the teeth due to blows to the mouth during physical activity can be prevented by wearing a custom-made sports mouthguard.

From the time their first tooth erupts through the gumline, children need to see their dentist regularly and practice a great at-home oral hygiene routine to ensure their teeth develop properly. This will help them build a solid foundation for oral health throughout their lives.

Adults

As we age, our teeth can become discoloured and we can experience decay. That’s why a rigorous at-home oral care routine and regularly scheduled dental appointments are critical to maintaining oral health and keeping cavities, gum disease and other conditions at bay.

Between the ages of 17 and 25, wisdom teeth may also erupt, potentially resulting in a dental emergency if they cause severe tooth pain. Infections in our teeth can also lead to pain and discomfort, and result in urgent visits to the dentist.

By regularly visiting our dentist, who can monitor our oral health and any conditions that require treatment, the majority of these can be avoided or at the very least minimized. Do not forget to brush and floss every day.

Seniors

By the time we reach our golden years, we’ve had a lot of life experience – but also many opportunities for our oral health to decline. After a lifetime of use, our teeth can endure wear and tear.

Grinding can result in jaw pain or TMJ Disorder, and gum disease may advance to the point that the gums begin to recede. This can leave tooth roots exposed - and lead to painful infections or conditions that may result in dental emergencies that need our dentist’s immediate attention.

In order to treat certain conditions or address any sudden dental emergencies or problems that arise, many seniors will also require dental implants.

Whatever your age, your dentist can evaluate your oral health and offer a dental risk assessment while taking into account your lifestyle and any particular circumstances that may increase your overall risk of having a dental emergency.

Are you wondering if you’re at risk for a dental emergency? Our Calgary dentists can examine your mouth and explain any risk factors, and which actions should be taken. Contact us today.