There are a number of reasons that one might experience a chipped tooth, including poor oral hygiene, teeth grinding, accident or trauma, and poor nutrition. Children are more susceptible to chipping a tooth because of their higher activity level. Additionally, elderly patients also experience chipped teeth more frequently, simply due to the aging process.
A chipped tooth is not necessarily a dental emergency, but it is important to have it addressed as soon as possible to avoid further damage. Even if you are not experiencing any negative side effects, a small chip can quickly turn into a large chip or break, or even a fractured tooth.
Are chipped teeth common?
Chipped teeth are incredibly common and can happen to patients of any age. Those who frequently experience tooth chipping need to see their dentist for an evaluation to determine if there is an underlying cause. As we mentioned above, poor oral hygiene, grinding your teeth, and poor nutrition are all factors that can contribute to chipped teeth. Facial piercings can also be harmful to the health of your teeth. Jewelry in the lip, cheek, or tongue can knock against the teeth, and if you fall or have an accident, it could cause a major chip or fracture in the teeth.
Good oral hygiene is a vital part of our overall systemic health. Poor oral hygiene leads to a buildup of plaque and bacteria, causing tooth decay and damage to the enamel. The enamel is the hard outer layer that protects your teeth from daily wear and tear, and when the enamel is compromised, teeth become more susceptible to decay and chipping. Keeping your teeth clean by flossing daily and brushing at least twice a day, accompanied by regular visits to your dentist, will help you stay healthy.
Which leads us to nutrition! Good nutrition is the cornerstone of overall health, and the vitamins and minerals that we absorb through dairy products and leafy greens can greatly improve the health of teeth. Acidic or sugary foods can be very harmful to the teeth, especially in young children who are still developing.
Additionally, underlying medical conditions can also have a major impact on the health of our teeth. Acid reflux, bulimia, and GERD are all conditions that can erode tooth enamel, leading to a higher risk of dental decay and chipped teeth.
Unconsciously clenching and/or grinding your teeth is called bruxism. This issue can be very hard on the teeth and can lead to a lot of damage. Many patients grind their teeth in their sleep, but also, teeth that are crooked or misaligned are more likely to chip when they hit against each other when you eat and speak. Your dentist can make you a custom night guard to sleep in to prevent breakfast from causing chips or other damage to your teeth. It can also help alleviate jaw pain and headaches.
Regardless of how severe a chipped tooth is, it is important to see your dentist, even if you do not experience any pain or sensitivity. A minor chip can often simply be smoothed out, but left untreated, it can quickly turn into something more harmful and more expensive to repair.
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