Summer translates to sunshine, outdoor activities, and enjoyable family events. Summer also increases the threat of some dental emergencies that can have your plans in shambles if not addressed at once. Being aware of what should be treated as soon as possible will prevent the loss of your teeth, protect your smile, and stop pain. At Long Falls Dentistry, we focus on helping Carthage residents respond quickly and safely to unexpected dental issues.
Why Summer Poses Unique Dental Risks
The combination of summer sports, vacations, and picnics places teeth more at risk. Sports injuries, sugary snacks at outdoor meals, and accidental falls are on the rise during these months. The American Dental Association describes how dental trauma rises during warm weather, particularly among young children and active young adults. Knowing how to act and when to call for a Carthage dentist can prevent long-term oral damage.
1. Knocked-Out Teeth
A fall from a bike, slipping during a volleyball game session, or a skateboarding mishap during summer can cause grave injuries to your teeth. Prompt action can make the difference between saving the teeth and losing them. Carefully pick up the tooth by the crown, rinse it gently, and do your best to place it back. If not, store it in milk or saline and seek the services of a dental office immediately.
2. Broken or Chipped Teeth
Crunching ice, accidental bites during barbecues, or sudden punches to your face can chip or crack teeth. Some cracks may seem insignificant, but they can result in sensitivity without treatment. A cold compress can reduce swelling, but it’s not a solution to skip your visit to the best dentist in Carthage for damage evaluation and infection prevention.
3. Severe Toothache
A toothache can strike at any time, but summer vacation typically manages to delay treatment. Pain can be produced by cavities, gum infection, or open nerves. Warm saltwater rinse and diet modification to exclude extremely hot or cold foods temporarily ease pain. Initial dental care ensures that the source of pain is treated before it spirals out of control.
4. Lost Filling or Crown
Summer candies, biting hard foods, or accidental bumping during outdoor hours may loosen crowns or fillings. While temporary dental cement can protect the area for a while, a visit to your Carthage dentist is needed soon. Treating the tooth prevents additional decay, sensitivity, and even tooth loss.
5. Soft Tissue Injuries
Cuts or lacerations to the lips, cheeks, or gums are common with outdoor activities, sports, or even summer gardening accidents. Tend the area carefully, only put pressure to stop bleeding, and treat the site gently to not cause further irritation. Dental evaluation ensures no underlying damage to teeth, bone, or supporting tissue.
Tips to Stay Prepared for Every Dental Emergency
Summer emergencies do not always arrive without notice, but some precautions can reduce risks:
- Use protective mouthguards during sports.
- Limit the intake of hard candies, chewing ice, or extremely crunchy snacks.
- Keep a small first-aid kit for your teeth with you while traveling.
- Schedule dental checkups every six months to keep your oral health on track.
Identification of problems early on can save your smile. Long Falls Dentistry is available to help you respond quickly and safely to every summer dental crisis that arises.