6 Common Causes of Chipped Teeth
We here at Dental Associates of New England have helped countless patients in and around Boston address major and minor chips and cracks. This can be done using advanced restorations such as dental crowns to rebuild compromised tooth structure or treatments that are more cosmetic in nature, such as veneers and bonding.
We want to take a moment right now to consider six common causes of chipped teeth and what can be done to address varying degrees of tooth damage.
Chipped Teeth Cause #1: Sports Injuries and Chipped Teeth
If a person plays contact sports or combat sports, he or she is likely to experience some sort of blow to the head or mouth. These kinds of sports injuries can cause damage to the teeth when they occur. This is why it's important to wear a mouthguard while you are playing these kinds of aggressive sports.
Chipped Teeth Cause #2: Assaults and Chipped Teeth
Victims of assault who experience blows to the head and face are likely to sustain damage damage to the teeth or mouth. The severity and nature of the attack will contribute to the likelihood of damage to the teeth.
Chipped Teeth Cause #3: Vehicle Accidents
Accidents that involve cars, motorcycles, or even bicycles can lead to major injuries to the mouth and head. These sorts of accidents can cause major chips and cracks to the teeth as a result and need to be taken very seriously.
Chipped Teeth Cause #4: Slip and Fall Accidents
If you are involved in a slip or fall, this can result in injuries to the head and face. Serious falls can make chipped teeth and other kinds of damage to the teeth more likely. Exercise caution when walking up and down stairs, and be sure to step carefully when you are on slippery or slick surfaces.
Chipped Teeth Cause #5: Biting and Chewing Hard Substances
If you accidentally bite into a bone or an unpopped kernel of popcorn, this can lead to major damage to your teeth, potentially causing a chip or a crack of some kind. This is one reason to bite and chew carefully and slowly. In addition, be sure not to chew on hard objects that are inedible, such as fingernails and pen caps.
Chipped Teeth Cause #6: Tooth Grinding (Bruxism)
Tooth grinding refers to the gnashing, clenching, and shifting of the teeth when a person is asleep. When this occurs, it can potentially cause chips and cracks to a person's teeth. Getting tooth grinding treated as soon as possible is a good way to prevent tooth damage such as chips.
Treatments for Chipped Teeth
There are numerous treatments available for chipped teeth, and the ideal option for you and your needs will depend on the nature and severity of the tooth damage. For minor chips, the use of dental bonding or porcelain veneers is often ideal. Major chips to a tooth will be best addressed through the use of inlays, onlays, or dental crowns.
With regard to teeth grinding, the ideal option is usually the use of a mouthguard to prevent direct contact between the teeth of the upper dental arch and the teeth of the lower dental arch. Orthodontics can be used to address malocclusion (a common cause of tooth grinding) as well as relaxation techniques and stress management strategies (stress is another common cause of tooth grinding).
Speak with a Skilled Cosmetic and Restorative Dentist
For more information about all of your options for advanced dental care treatment, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry center today. The team here at Dental Associates of New England look forward to your visit and helping you achieve a great-looking smile and optimal dental health as well.
