
Manhattan Emergency Dentist Explains Why Your Smile Is Worth More Than a Pot of Gold
When you think about treasures in life, images of sparkling gold, glittering jewels, or a chest brimming with coins may come to mind. Yet, one of the most valuable treasures you possess doesn’t sit hidden in a vault or weigh down your pockets—it’s your smile.
Investing in your oral health is far more beneficial than chasing a mythical pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. One main reason why? It can prevent you from needing to see our Manhattan emergency dentist. Below, the team at Greene Street Dental put together a list of preventative treatments that can help you avoid specific dental emergencies.
1. Regular Checkups Prevent Cavities, Gum Disease, and Damage
Visiting our office for routine checkups and cleanings is the foundation of preventive care. These appointments allow us to remove plaque buildup, which is a primary culprit behind cavities and gum disease.
More importantly, these checkups aren’t just about cleaning your teeth—they’re an opportunity to catch small problems, like minor cracks or early decay, before they develop into severe emergencies. Undetected cavities, for example, can turn into painful tooth infections that might require a root canal or even an extraction.
Lucky Tip
Scheduling regular visits means spending less time worrying about surprise issues and more time smiling confidently. Aim to see us every six months.
2. Fluoride Strengthens Enamel and Fends Off Toothaches
Fluoride is often called nature’s cavity fighter—and for good reason. This mineral strengthens your enamel (the protective outer layer of your teeth), making your teeth more resistant to decay and sensitivity. Fluoride can even reverse early decay.
For patients prone to cavities, fluoride treatments can act as a defensive shield. By protecting your enamel, you’re not only preventing decay but also reducing the risk of painful toothaches and infections that can arise from untreated cavities. You might not think of a cavity as an emergency, but if you don’t get one treated, it will ultimately require our Manhattan emergency dentist.
Lucky Tip
Many modern fluoride treatments are quick, painless, and suitable for both children and adults. Ask our dentist if you’re due for one during your next visit to Greene Street Dental.
3. Dental Sealants Keep Molars Safe from Cavities
Your back teeth—or molars—are particularly vulnerable to cavities because their deep grooves can trap food particles and bacteria. That’s where sealants come in. These thin, protective coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of molars, effectively “sealing out” decay-causing elements.
Sealants are particularly beneficial for children whose developing teeth are often harder to clean thoroughly. However, adults who haven’t developed cavities on their molars can also benefit, especially if they have especially deep grooves in their teeth.
Lucky Tip
As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) points out, a single application of dental sealants can last years. This can provide your entire family with long-term peace of mind against cavity-related emergencies.
4. Mouthguards Protect Against Sports Injuries and Teeth Grinding
Accidents happen, and they often involve your teeth. Whether you’re an athlete or someone who grinds their teeth at night, mouthguards can dramatically reduce the likelihood of chipped, fractured, or knocked-out teeth. The American Dental Association (ADA) reports that the rate of dental trauma for those with sports guards was just over 7%, whereas those without a sports guard had a rate of 48% to nearly 60%.
Sports mouthguards cushion your teeth against impact during high-contact activities like basketball or soccer, while night guards protect against the wear and tear caused by teeth grinding (bruxism). Without these preventative tools, you risk not only seeing our Manhattan emergency dentist but also chronic issues like jaw pain or TMJ disorders.
Lucky Tip
Custom-fitted night guards from our dentist offer the best protection and comfort compared to store-bought options.
5. Proper Oral Hygiene Habits Prevent Tooth Loss
The simplest (and most effective) preventative treatment starts at home. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily are your first lines of defense against plaque buildup and gum disease. Good oral hygiene habits help maintain healthy gums, ensuring they can support your teeth for a lifetime.
Failing to care for your teeth at home can lead to gum disease, the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Once gum disease progresses, it often requires intensive treatment, and in severe cases, tooth extraction becomes unavoidable.
Lucky Tip
To keep your teeth and gums in peak condition, pair your brushing and flossing routine with a healthy, balanced diet. Foods rich in vitamin C are especially good for your gums.
Strike Gold with a Preventative Dental Visit
Your smile is worth so much more than a pot of gold—it’s a reflection of your health and happiness. By prioritizing preventative treatments, you can save yourself from unnecessary pain, stress, and costly visits to see our Manhattan emergency dentist.
Take the first step toward protecting your smile. Schedule some time with the compassionate team at Greene Street Dental today to discuss which preventative treatments are right for you. Get started now!