Dental Hygiene Educational Tips – Maine Emergency Dentist
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Dental Hygiene Educational Tips

Use our dental hygiene page as a resource to learn about the different dental problems that can occur and how to prevent them.

Common Dental Conditions & Prevention

Understanding dental conditions and their prevention is key to maintaining good oral health. Learn about the most common dental problems and how to prevent them.

Abscess

A bacterial infection that causes a pocket of pus to form around the tooth root or gums, often resulting in severe pain and swelling.

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Calculus Teeth

Hardened plaque that forms on teeth when bacteria and food particles aren’t properly removed through brushing and flossing.

Chipped Tooth

A broken or fractured tooth that can occur from trauma, biting hard objects, or tooth decay weakening the tooth structure.

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Erosion

The gradual wearing away of tooth enamel caused by acids from foods, drinks, or stomach acid, leading to tooth sensitivity and decay.

Fillings

Dental restorations used to repair teeth damaged by decay, restoring the tooth’s function and preventing further deterioration.

Gum Disease

Infection of the tissues surrounding teeth, ranging from gingivitis to advanced periodontitis, caused by bacterial plaque buildup.

Gum Recession

The process where gum tissue pulls back from teeth, exposing tooth roots and potentially leading to sensitivity and decay.

Missing

Absent teeth due to extraction, trauma, or congenital conditions that can affect chewing, speech, and facial structure.

Overcrowding

When there isn’t enough space in the mouth for all teeth to fit properly, leading to crooked or overlapping teeth.

Periodontitis

Advanced gum disease that damages soft tissue and destroys the bone supporting teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss.

Plaque

A sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth, leading to tooth decay and gum disease if not removed regularly.

Root Exposure

When tooth roots become visible due to gum recession, often causing sensitivity to hot, cold, and sweet substances.

Stains

Discoloration of teeth caused by foods, drinks, tobacco, or aging, affecting the appearance and confidence of your smile.

Tooth Abrasion

Wearing away of tooth enamel from mechanical factors like aggressive brushing, grinding, or using teeth as tools.

Tooth Extraction

The removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone when it cannot be saved through other dental treatments.

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Wisdom Teeth

The third set of molars that typically emerge in late teens or early twenties, often requiring removal due to lack of space.

Prevention is Key

Most dental problems can be prevented with proper oral hygiene and regular dental care. Here are essential tips for maintaining optimal dental health.

Daily Oral Hygiene

Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste for at least 2 minutes

Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth

Use mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen breath

Replace toothbrush every 3-4 months or after illness

Lifestyle Habits

Avoid tobacco products which increase risk of gum disease and cancer

Limit sugary foods and drinks that feed harmful bacteria

Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamins

Visit your dentist every 6 months for checkups and cleanings

Need Emergency Dental Care?

Don’t wait for dental problems to get worse. Get the help you need now with our emergency dental services.

Prevention vs. Emergency Care

While prevention is always best, dental emergencies can happen to anyone. When they do, having access to immediate professional care can save your tooth and prevent more serious complications.

Our practice provides emergency dental services Monday through Friday to help you when you need it most.

Emergency Line

Get immediate help for dental emergencies

(207) 910-2646

Available Monday through Friday

Same-Day Appointments Available

Emergency scheduling at our Saco, Maine location