Why Are My Teeth Chipping?
If you chip a tooth during a fall or accident, it’s usually pretty easy to determine the cause of the chip and work with your dentist to fix it. If you notice that you’ve chipped a tooth and don’t know how it happened, however, it could be alarming, and it’s usually a sign that there’s an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. A chipped tooth could also lead to more serious issues, like an infection in the tooth that could even spread into the bone or bloodstream, posing greater systemic dangers, so it’s important to see a dentist if you chip or crack a tooth, even if it doesn’t seem to be that serious.
One of the most common causes for chipped teeth, and for a whole host of other oral and dental issues, is poor oral hygiene. The enamel on the teeth breaks down in the presence of tooth decay, which is caused by the accumulation of bacterial plaque on the teeth, and, as the enamel breaks down, the teeth weaken and become more prone to chipping and breaking. While compromised teeth are more likely to chip, external causes can also lead to cracks and chips in the teeth. Eating excessively hard food can cause the teeth to chip or crack, especially when the teeth are weakened by decay or otherwise compromised. The teeth are designed to support a significant amount of force during biting and chewing, but chronically chewing on ice, hard candy, or non-food items like pens or fingernails can cause significant damage to the teeth, which could happen gradually or suddenly.
Another common cause of teeth chipping or breaking is a condition called bruxism, which is characterized by habitual, involuntary clenching or grinding of the teeth. Bruxism can also lead to headaches, toothaches, erosion of dental enamel, and pain in the jaw. Many people with bruxism grind their teeth while sleeping, and people are more prone to bruxism when experiencing anxiety or stress. Stress-reduction techniques and mechanical therapies like nightguards can reduce the effects of bruxism and keep the teeth protected, and your dentist can review these options with you at your next office visit.
Chipped teeth can also occur when cavities go untreated and are allowed to advance. Dental cavities can be caused by poor oral hygiene, of course, but the risk of getting tooth decay is increased in smokers, people with acid reflux and heartburn, and people who consume excessive alcohol or have poor nutrition. Even with our best defenses, however, sometimes the teeth simply weaken over time, which makes chipped teeth more common in aging populations. Of course, maintaining good oral hygiene and reducing destructive habits like bruxism or chewing ice can help keep the teeth sturdy and whole, and maintaining a nutritious diet can help keep the bones and dental enamel healthy and durable.
If you chip a tooth and notice any symptoms of infection, which could include pain or discomfort while biting or chewing, sensitivities to temperature, a bad odor or taste in the mouth, inflammation of the glands in the neck and face, or fever, make sure to see your dentist right away. Otherwise, if you have a chipped tooth, even if it doesn’t seem that serious and isn’t painful, schedule an appointment with your dentist so you can be on your way back to oral health.
If you have a chipped tooth, reach out to discuss dental bonding and other repair options.