An individual's lifestyle, dental and medical history can influence their risk of dental emergencies as they age. Here, we explain who's most at-risk for a dental emergency and how they can be mitigated.
Who is at risk for dental emergencies?
Anyone may face challenges that increase the risk for a dental emergency. Dental emergencies may happy at any time and each has a different cause. Here are some of the most common causes for dental emergencies in adults, children and seniors.
Children
Children often lead physically active lifestyles and face hazards like sports injuries. They also should watch how many sweet snacks they eat, since sugar contributed to tooth decay and cavities.
Injuries to your child's teeth during physical activity can be prevented by wearing a custom-made sports mouthguard.
Children need to regularly see their dentist after their first tooth erupts as well as practice at-home oral hygiene to help their teeth develop. This will help to build a foundation for good oral health all through their lives.
Adults
As we grow, teeth may become discoloured and experience decay. Dedicated at-home oral healthcare and routinely scheduled dental appointments are key to preventing cavities and gum disease.
Between ages 17 and 25, wisdom teeth may erupt. This may cause a dental emergency if they cause severe pain. Infections may also result in urgent dental visits.
Most of these can be prevented or at least minimized by seeing our dentist regularly so they can track oral health and any conditions that should be treated. Also, remember to brush and floss daily.
Seniors
By our golden years, we've had plenty of life experience, but also plenty of chances for oral health issues to develop. After a full life of use, our teeth can become worn down.
Grinding may cause jaw pain and TMI Disorder and gum disease may cause gums to recede. This can expose tooth roots and cause painful conditions resulting in dental emergencies.
Seniors will also often need dental implants to treat conditions or emergencies.
No matter your age, a dentist can assess your oral health and determine what risks affect you based on your lifestyle, age and other unique circumstances.
Are you worried that you’re at risk for a dental emergency?
A dentist will be able to examine your mouth and explain your risk factors as well as what action should be taken.
