It’s true that tooth enamel is the hardest substance found in the human body. However, that doesn’t mean that your teeth are indestructible. With the right conditions, teeth can chip—and sometimes crack. In addition to impacting the look of your smile, chips can leave you vulnerable to cavities, increased dental sensitivity, as well as cheek and tongue injuries. To help you avoid having to pay an unexpected visit to the dentist, here are a few common causes of chipped teeth and how you can prevent them.

5 Typical Reasons People Chip Their Teeth

1. Tooth Decay

Plaque is a colorless film of bacteria that develops naturally in the mouth. When this bacteria consumes sugar for energy, it produces acids that can wear away at the enamel. In addition to causing cavities, this enamel erosion can weaken teeth to the point where they may easily chip. To keep plaque under control, be sure to brush twice a day for two minutes each, floss daily, and visit your dentist every six months for routine cleanings.

2. Biting Something Hard

Chewing on ice or using your teeth to open a tough package can expose enamel to high amounts of pressure and friction, resulting in breakage. To prevent these accidents, never use your teeth as tools and avoid chewing on hard objects or food—such as popcorn kernels or pen caps.

3. Oral Injury

When blunt force trauma to the mouth is hard enough, it can chip or crack teeth. This type of injury is particularly common in sports where athletes fall or collide with other players. While accidents can’t always be prevented, athletes can protect their smiles by getting a custom mouthguard from a dentist and wearing it during physical activities.

4. Piercings

Oral piercings—such as lip and tongue rings—may be fashionable, but they are incredibly dangerous for teeth. When the metal comes into contact with teeth, it can cause the enamel to chip or crack. For this reason, it’s best to avoid oral piercings.

5. Teeth Grinding

Bruxism, also known as nighttime teeth grinding, occurs in many people while they sleep. Over time, the pressure of grinding wears down enamel and may cause breakage. In most cases, you can prevent this damage by getting a custom night guard from your dentist, as well as by treating underlying causes of bruxism—such as sleep apnea or stress.

 

When chips happen, don’t wait to get your teeth looked at by a professional—such as Larry G. Hubbard, DDS. This Statesboro, GA, dentist will restore damaged teeth using a variety of professional solutions—including cosmetic bonding, fillings, crowns, and veneers. Dr. Hubbard can also provide routine dental cleanings and custom mouthguards to help keep your smile strong. Visit this dentist online to learn more about these services or call (912) 764-9891 to schedule a convenient appointment.