How’s your day going?
It doesn’t come around too often, Friday 13th. In fact, the good news is that there can only be a maximum of three in a year. With so much going on in the world, we hope you’re in a safe environment. But accidents around the home and garden happen – rather a lot of them.
Crashes and falls in the course of a regular day are the reason for many dental emergencies. Unfortunately, however much we try to avoid dental emergencies, accidents do happen. Although the list below is tongue-in-cheek, there’s actually a lot of truth behind these too.
So if you think Friday 13th is an unlucky day and you want to protect your teeth, here’s some useful advice to avoid dental emergencies:
- If you’re out being sporty, or just playing catch with a cricket ball in the garden, wear a gum shield.
- Beware of falling objects. Even your mobile can be a hazard.
- Drink lots of water, its the best drink for your teeth, but don’t chew ice.
- Step carefully in the bathroom…
- … and hold the shower head well away from your teeth while you sing.
- Leave the DIY for another day, especially if it involves a ladder.
- Drive carefully, even if it’s only a lawnmower.
- Check those shoe laces.
- Reduce Friday night alcohol intake.
- Relaxing on a bunk bed, or a garden hammock? It’s safer to lie on the floor instead.
- Dog-walking, tripping over the cat – pets can be a hazard.
- Open and close doors with caution.
- Enjoy the day as you would any other. Take care, and keep safe:)
The good news?
If you do have a dental problem, the good news is that dentists are open during this second lockdown.
It’s an emergency
When there’s bleeding that won’t stop or swelling that’s increasing, seek professional advice and treatment without hesitation. Other situations also require treatment promptly. For example, to save a knocked out tooth it’s best to get to the dentist with the tooth within an hour.
We can’t always avoid dental emergencies.
What to do:
- Call your dentist straight away, as it’s best to get a professional opinion as soon as possible.
- Try to see how much damage there is.
- Don’t ignore dental damage, as it can lead to infection, decay or abscess. Make an appointment with your dentist.