Are Chipped Teeth Common?
Chipped teeth are a frequent and common dental injury. It will happen to anyone, yet some are more prone than others. If you believe your teeth might chip easily, this is something that you should address.
Teeth will chip because they are weak, or from your lifestyle putting them at risk, or from other dental problems creating pressure on them.
Consulting with your dentist may determine the cause and what you can do to prevent more damage. They may also recommend a treatment to repair your current damage and restore your healthy smile.
Risk Factors for Chipped Teeth
- Tooth Decay- Tooth decay is the result of bacteria wearing down the enamel. These bacteria build up constantly on the teeth, developing plaque. The plaque then releases acids, which attack the protective enamel layer, making your teeth more vulnerable to damage. Teeth that have been repaired with dental fillings can also be more prone to chips.
- Acid Wear- Teeth can also be worn down by other acids in your diet, like fruit juices, carbonated beverages, and wine. Teeth can also be damaged from acids resulting from medical conditions like acid reflux, heartburn, and even morning sickness during pregnancy.
- Poor Nutrition- Some foods accelerate tooth decay and erosion, while other foods like dairy products and leafy greens will build strong and healthy teeth. Building stronger teeth is important for young children while their teeth are developing, but you can still make sure you are getting enough dietary calcium and vitamins to protect your teeth.
- Misaligned Bite- If your teeth are not aligned or bite together properly, this will put some teeth under more pressure, making them more likely to crack or chip.
- Teeth Grinding and Clenching- Impulsive clenching or grinding of teeth is known as bruxism. This happens during the day or during your sleep. It causes uneven wear of the enamel and puts some teeth under added pressure.
- Sport Injuries- Contact sports are a primary cause of dental injuries. Other activities that involve a risk of impact on your mouth or falling can also cause chipped teeth.
- Occupational Risks- Your job might cause chipped teeth if it involves a physical risk of dental injury or if the stress causes you to grind your teeth.
- Mouth Piercings- Any piercing of your lip, tongue, or cheek will increase the risk of a tooth being chipped if you are hit in the mouth.
- Aging- The risk of tooth damage will increase with age because your enamel wears down naturally with time. The amount of wear depends on your oral hygiene practices.
- Genetics- Some people are simply more likely to have weaker teeth through heredity.
How to Fix a Chipped Tooth
Your dentist might recommend treating the damage to restore your tooth and prevent further complications. They will first examine your mouth and take X-rays to determine the extent of the damage, and then suggest the appropriate treatment.
The best treatment depends on where the tooth is, how severe the damage is, and your lifestyle preferences. The most common options for chipped teeth are:
- A protective dental crown.
- An onlay.
- Adding tooth bonding.
- Adding a dental veneer.
How to Prevent a Chipped Tooth
If you continue to damage your teeth, your dentist might recommend preventive treatments or changes to your lifestyle habits. These recommendations may include:
- Regular check-ups.
- Improve your oral hygiene.
- Wear a mouthguard.
- Follow a balanced diet.
- Teeth straightening or strengthening.
Related Article: Why are my Teeth Chipping?