Chipping a tooth isn’t fun, but there are steps to avoid them. The reasons vary, but the most common causes of chipped teeth can be a combination of environmental, nutritional and genetic. Here are some of the more common causes for chronic chipped teeth and how you can deal with them.
- Grinding your teeth while you sleep. This condition is bruxism and corrected by wearing a nightly mouthguard, preferably one fitted by a dentist.
- Poor nutrition can hurt your teeth both inside and out. Too many sugary drinks, foods or fruit drinks can cause the tooth enamel to erode and lead to chipped teeth. A change in diet and a regular dental hygiene program will usually stop the damage. However, enamel erosion can also be caused by more subtle factors, like genetics or gastrointestinal issues. Also, a lack of calcium and other nutrients in the diet can lead to weak teeth. Eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of non-sugar drinks every day to help avoid chipped teeth.
- Poor dental hygiene can lead to enamel erosion and weakened tooth roots. Everybody should have a regular dental hygiene plan and follow it daily. Also, make sure you are using the right tools. Your toothpaste should contain fluoride and be ADA approved and ask your dentist for a recommendation for the correct toothbrush.
- If you participate in contact sports like martial arts or basketball, be sure to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth. They help absorb the shock of any strikes, and they help maintain the structural integrity of the mouth and prevent chipped teeth.
When you chip a tooth, you should go to the dentist immediately or within a few days to make sure there isn’t further damage. If you are concerned about the frequency of getting chipped teeth, tell the dentist. He or she can perform a complete exam of your teeth and lifestyle, and make recommendations.
At Gentle Dental Center, we have a lot of experience dealing with broken and chipped teeth. We are also experts in dental hygiene. Don’t hesitate to contact us at (757) 431-1300 to see how we can help you and your teeth. There are many options to correct chipped and broken teeth. We’ll suggest the right one for you and make sure you leave with a beautiful set of teeth and know how to care for them.
