Surprising Causes of Chipped Teeth

While chipping a tooth is often a result of a fall, accident, or an intense contact sport like hockey, most find it surprising that chipped teeth can also occur from the seemingly harmless habits and choices of everyday life. Find out what may be causing your chipped teeth from the list below.

Tongue piercings

Many people are not aware that tongue piercings can not only increase the risk of getting an infection in the mouth, but they can also lead to chipped teeth. Biting on tongue jewelry, either habitually or on accident, can lead to cracks, chips, and other damage. According to research published in the Journal of Periodontology, 47 percent of people who wear tongue jewelry for at least four years have experienced chipped teeth.

Stress (bruxism)

Many times those who do not know how their teeth became chipped or cracked consistently grind their teeth in their sleep. This condition is known as bruxism, which is often brought on by stress. Bruxism affects about eight percent of adults and is completely treatable. In a previous post, we discussed a few ways patients can prevent bruxism on their own or lessen the damage that it causes. Dr. Tomazin can help determine what is causing your chipped or cracked teeth and correct any damage with dental bonding or porcelain veneers. They will also make other suggestions for preventing bruxism.

Crooked Teeth

Braces are not only a solution for a beautiful smile; they also can correct pain or damage that is caused by an improper bite. All types of malocclusion (crooked teeth) can cause chips and cracks in the teeth, which is why correction is important for your long-term oral health. Straightening your teeth sooner rather than later can avoid more extensive corrective treatment down the road.

Nail biting

Nail biting may seem harmless, especially if you have thin nails, but over time it can cause the teeth to chip. When most people use their teeth as tools or to bite their nails, they tend to use the same particular teeth to bite and tear, causing accelerated damage to that portion of the tooth.

Chewing ice

Chewing ice, hard candy, or any hard, non-food object can chip the teeth. If you have a habit of chewing on any of these hard objects, it is best to avoid them completely and replace the habit by chewing sugar-free gum.

Chipped teeth can cause problems with speech, sores or discomfort in the mouth, and can worsen over time. If you have a chipped tooth or teeth, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Tomazin for an assessment.  The information they can provide you will help to correct the problem and restore your beautiful smile. Call (951) 686-3666 or fill out our online contact form today. We look forward to serving you!