Chipping a tooth is a common problem that a lot of patients experience at some point in their lives. Children often experience a chipped tooth because of their high activity level, and conversely, older patients can experience a chipped tooth because of the natural weakening of the teeth as we age. It is possible to experience a chipped tooth without having an accident or some sort of trauma to the mouth, in which case your dentist will be able to ask questions and figure out why your tooth chipped. There are a number of other reasons that your teeth can chip, so let’s take a look at some of those now.
Why are my teeth chipping?
Chipping a tooth occasionally is very common, but some patients may have trouble with their teeth chipping frequently, which can be a side effect of an underlying cause. One of the most common reasons a patient experiences chipped teeth is poor oral hygiene. Taking care to remove the plaque and bacteria buildup is a crucial step in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Failing to remove plaque buildup every day can allow the plaque to harden into tartar, which can compromise the integrity of your teeth.
It is also important to maintain a healthy diet that includes the vitamins and minerals that your teeth need to stay strong and healthy. Acidic or sugary foods and beverages, excessive alcohol consumption, and tobacco use can all damage tooth enamel, causing decay and chipping. The tooth enamel protects the softer tissues within the tooth, so it is important to keep it strong.
Another dental problem that can cause repeated chips in the teeth is bruxism. Bruxism is when we clench or grind our teeth, often without realizing it. So many patients grind their teeth in their sleep and wake with jaw pain. Bruxism is very hard on the teeth, but your dentist can make a custom night guard for you to sleep in that can really help alleviate the negative impact that bruxism can have on your teeth.
It is also important to discuss any underlying medical conditions with your dentist. There are some issues that can weaken enamel and will require medical attention. Acid reflux, GERD, and bulimia are all conditions that cause stomach acids to repeatedly come into contact with the teeth and can erode tooth enamel.
In the event that you chip a tooth, it is important to have it evaluated by your dentist as soon as possible. Even a minor chip that does not cause any discomfort or sensitivity can quickly turn into a large chip, break, or even fracture. Repeatedly chipping your teeth may be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition, so it is important to discuss your medical history with your dentist so that they can help determine if you need to see your general doctor for further diagnosis. A chipped tooth will not resolve on its own and will only worsen over time.
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