6 Ways to Save Your Tooth & Why It Matters

Did you know June is National Save Your Tooth Month? Yep – it’s a real thing, and we love it. Why? Because here at Oak Park Dental, we’re all about helping you keep your natural teeth healthy and strong for life.

Your natural teeth are kind of like original art – irreplaceable, unique, and worth preserving. So whether you’ve had a close call with a cracked molar, or you’re just curious about how to avoid major dental drama, we’ve got your back. Here are six tried-and-true ways to save your tooth – plus a bonus tip.

1. Mouthguards: Your Tooth’s Personal Bodyguard

If you play sports or grind your teeth at night, a mouthguard isn’t just a good idea – it’s essential. Athletic mouthguards protect you from sudden impacts (because elbows happen), and nightguards can prevent serious damage from clenching and grinding while you sleep. 

2. Gum Disease Treatment: Because Your Gums Matter Too

Your gums are the foundation for your teeth. When they’re not healthy, your teeth are at risk of loosening or even falling out. Yikes. Treating gum disease early can help stop it in its tracks and save your teeth from a shaky future. We can save your teeth with treatments like deep cleanings, scaling, and root planing.

3. Root Canals: Not As Scary As You Think

We get it – root canals have a bad reputation. But the truth is, they’re one of the best ways to save a tooth that’s deeply infected or decayed. Instead of pulling the tooth, a root canal cleans out the infection and seals the tooth to prevent future issues. You get to keep your natural smile intact.

4. Tooth Fillings: Small Fix, Big Difference

Cavities happen. But the sooner you catch them, the easier they are to treat. A simple filling can stop decay in its tracks and keep your tooth structure strong. These days, fillings are quick, comfortable, and tooth-colored for a discreet appearance.

5. Inlays & Onlays: The Middle Ground Solution

Sometimes, a cavity or crack is too big for a filling but not quite bad enough for a crown. Enter inlays and onlays – the “just right” fix for moderate damage. They fit perfectly into or over the tooth and are custom-made to restore strength and shape without getting a full crown.

6. Same-Day Crowns: Fast, Strong, & Beautiful

Crowns used to take multiple appointments and temporary fixes. Not anymore! With same-day crowns at Oak Park Dental, we can scan, design, and place your custom crown in just one visit. That means less time in the chair and more time enjoying life with a fully restored smile.

Bonus Tip: Don’t Skip Your Regular Exams & Cleanings

Here’s the truth: Most major dental problems start small. Regular checkups and cleanings help us catch issues early – before they turn into pain, infection, or tooth loss. Prevention is the name of the game, and these routine visits are your first line of defense when it comes to saving your teeth.

Saving your teeth isn’t just about looking good (although it helps). It’s about protecting your overall health, avoiding bigger procedures down the road, and maintaining a confident, comfortable smile.

So this Save Your Tooth Month, let’s celebrate those pearly whites and all the amazing things we can do to keep them happy and healthy.

Need to schedule your next exam? Have a tooth that needs a little TLC? Call Oak Park Dental at 608-351-0192 to save your tooth in Madison, WI. You can also schedule online.