Why Are My Teeth Chipping?

If you chip a tooth from an accident or a fall, identifying the cause is quite simple. But if you chip a tooth while you are eating or in the middle of the night, then there is a health-related reason that needs to be identified with the oversight of your dentist.

Common Causes for Chipped Teeth

Chipped teeth can be an early warning sign that you have a dental health issue that needs attention.

A common cause of teeth randomly chipping is the neglect of proper dental hygiene at home on a consistent basis. The protective outer surface enamel will deteriorate, compromising the strength of teeth.

Here are some frequent causes for chipped teeth:

  • Biting Hard Objects- The enamel, which is the outer layer of your teeth, is for protection with natural foods such as vegetables, fruits, meats, and nuts. But chewing on things like ice, hard candy, jawbreakers, or even your fingernails can result in considerable damage. The dense texture of these items will weaken the integrity of the enamel. Over time, the enamel is damaged to the point where the teeth cannot manage the pressure and stress.
  • Grinding or Clenching Your Teeth – Called bruxism, teeth grinding is an involuntary routine that involves pressing your teeth together. Depending on the severity, this will cause toothaches, headaches, jaw pain, enamel erosion, and broken teeth. Grinding can be your natural reaction to stress and anxiety, or it might happen while you are sleeping.
  • Advanced Tooth Decay and Cavities- The more susceptible your teeth are to decay and cavities, the higher the risk is of damaging a tooth. A chipped tooth can easily be from a cavity that was left untreated. The pain in the tooth can be the result of poor oral hygiene, poor nutrition, excessive tobacco and alcohol consumption, or acid reflux and heartburn. When a cavity progresses, it will destroy the enamel and reach the soft inner layer, called the dentin. This structural breakdown leaves the tooth weak and vulnerable to chips, cracks, and breakage, tooth sensitivity, and other dental health issues.
  • Age-Related Wear - As we get older, our bodies change, which includes our oral health. Your teeth are exposed daily to acidic foods and drinks, so over time, the surface enamel naturally thins. As we age, the greater the chances are of experiencing a chipped tooth. Recent research has shown that the age range of between 45-54 is where chipped and cracked teeth happen most often. This is why the health industry strongly suggests proper daily hygiene. Preventive oral hygiene will extend the life expectancy of healthy teeth.

What to Do if You Chip Your Tooth

No matter how small the chip or crack is, make an appointment to see your dentist. If you do not, you are risking even further damage.

Dental emergencies, of course, never happen at convenient times. You might chip a tooth on the weekend when your dentist is closed. Consider the following suggestions as you wait for proper treatment.

  • If you are experiencing pain, manage it with over-the-counter pain relievers.
  • Rinse with salt water to help with both pain and swelling.
  • If the chipped tooth has a sharp or jagged edge, place some sugarless gum or paraffin wax over it to protect your tongue and cheeks.
  • Avoid chewing with the chipped tooth and eat soft foods.

Is a Chipped Tooth Serious?