A chipped tooth can result in more than just embarrassment. In addition to making it hard to smile for pictures, a broken tooth can cause oral lacerations, dental decay, and extreme sensitivity. Here are three easy ways to avoid a chipped tooth, so you can prevent these problems.

How to Avoid a Chipped Tooth

Use a Mouthguard During Sports 

Impact sports can be good for your body, but they are hard on your teeth. To prevent oral injuries like dental fractures, always wear a mouthguard. Your dentist will create a custom piece just for your smile, so you can celebrate a touchdown with every tooth intact.

Avoid Tongue & Lip Piercings

Tongue and lip piercings can get in the way when you talk or chew, increasing the chance for chipped teeth. To prevent damage, avoid tongue or lip piercings altogether—or remove the jewelry before you eat. If you choose to keep your lip or tongue piercing, opt for small jewelry pieces that aren’t as likely to get in the way.

Don’t Indulge Nervous Habits

Several nervous habits are detrimental to your oral health, such as chewing your fingernails, biting on pens, or munching on ice cubes. Instead of using these nervous habits to relieve your stress, focus on taking time for yourself every day, getting enough exercise, and relaxing. Additionally, take actions to prevent these habits, such as painting your nails with gel polish, switching up your writing utensils, or ordering your drinks without ice. 

If you have a chipped tooth or are interested in preventive care, talk with the professionals at Tohill Dentistry in Somerset, KY. In addition to offering a variety of preventive care services and working with patients to achieve optimal dental health, this team of experienced family dentists helps patients with veneers, cosmetic bonding, and teeth whitening. For more information about their services, explore their website or call (606) 679-4450.