Why Are My Teeth Chipping?
You may have looked in the mirror recently and noticed a small chip in your tooth. Maybe you were chewing on some ice in your soda, and later on, noticed that your tooth felt sharp on your tongue. Many individuals chip their teeth, but some can be more harmful than others, as they can lead to serious tooth damage. Below are a few examples that may affect whether or not you are more susceptible to chipping teeth.
- Age: Over time, with age, our bodies start to decline in function, teeth included. After years and years of grinding, chewing, and acidic foods and drinks, tooth enamel will wear off. Tooth enamel is a shiny, hard, white layer on the outside of your teeth. It is the hardest substance in your body. But, because enamel is not a living tissue, it cannot grow back.
- Condition: Osteoporosis is a condition that can lead to jaw damage, which can then cause serious dental issues. Untreated cavities can also increase the risk of your teeth cracking or chipping.
- Lifestyle: If you are someone who plays contact sports like football, hockey, rugby, or boxing, you are likely to get hit in the face or mouth, which could lead to a chipped tooth. Always wear a mouthguard in contact sports to prevent any damage to your teeth.
- Poor Bite: A crooked bite can cause uneven friction and pressure, which can affect how you speak, eat, swallow, and bite. If your uneven bite causes your teeth to bear too much force, it can wear on the enamel and cause your teeth to crack or break from chewing or clenching.
- Poor Oral Health: One of the main reasons for chipped teeth is cavities. If a cavity goes unnoticed, it can weaken the teeth and make them more likely to chip.
Many everyday habits can weaken your teeth. Below are habits that you should avoid:
- Biting on hard objects such as your fingernails, ice, pens, straws, hard candy, and bottle caps.
- Using your teeth as a tool. For example, opening a bottle, tearing open a package, or a tag on your clothes.
- Sugary and/or acidic foods or drinks. Examples include but are not limited to: soda, candies, citrus, coffee/tea, and alcohol.
- Grinding your teeth. Most often, this is done when you are stressed, anxious, or during sleep. Grinding can cause gradual erosion and weaken the enamel.
If you break or chip a tooth, you must go to the dentist as soon as you can. If it is severe, try to get in right away. Your dentist will come up with a treatment plan, such as a crown, veneers, or bonding, if needed. They also might recommend preventative measures like a night guard or changes to your daily habits.
Now remember, chipped teeth are very common, and they are treatable. Although it is very important to be proactive and take action right away if you notice your tooth has chipped, because it can lead to further oral issues.