A chipped tooth occurs when a piece of the tooth’s outer protective layer, enamel, breaks off. While enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, it is not indestructible and can fracture. A chipped tooth is a common dental concern.
Prevalence of Chipped Teeth
More than 20% of adults have experienced a broken tooth at least once. While anyone can chip a tooth, some individuals are more susceptible to dental fractures. This can stem from weakened teeth or specific habits and lifestyle factors that increase the risk of injury.
Common Causes of Chipped Teeth
Accidents and trauma are common causes of chipped teeth. Direct blows to the face or jaw, such as from falls or sports, can cause enamel to break. Biting down on hard objects also leads to chips, including ice, hard candies, unpopped popcorn kernels, nuts, bones, or fruit pits.
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, places repetitive stress on teeth, wearing down enamel and making them vulnerable to chipping. This habit often occurs unconsciously, particularly during sleep.
Pre-existing dental issues also weaken teeth. Tooth decay, or cavities, eats away at enamel, making the tooth structure fragile and prone to chipping. Using teeth as tools, like opening packages, or age-related enamel weakening can also increase risk.
What to Do About a Chipped Tooth
If you chip a tooth, take immediate action. Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to cleanse the area. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling and pain. Avoid chewing on the side of the chipped tooth until you see a dentist.
If a significant tooth fragment breaks off, try to save it by storing it in milk or saliva and bring it to the dentist; it may sometimes be reattached. Symptoms include a rough surface that irritates your tongue or cheek, pain when biting or chewing, and increased sensitivity to hot or cold. Severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, or a large missing portion indicates a serious injury requiring immediate dental attention. Seek prompt professional dental care to assess damage, prevent infection, and address underlying issues.
Repair Options for a Chipped Tooth
Dental professionals have several options to repair a chipped tooth, depending on the damage.
For minor chips, dental bonding uses a tooth-colored composite resin to restore appearance.
If the chip is larger or on a front tooth, a dental veneer, a thin, custom-made shell, can be bonded to the front surface.
For substantial chips that compromise the tooth’s structure, a dental crown may be recommended. This cap covers the entire tooth, providing strength and protection.
If the chip exposes the tooth’s inner pulp and nerve, a root canal treatment may be necessary to remove infected tissue before the tooth is restored, often with a crown.
Preventing Chipped Teeth
Taking proactive steps can reduce the likelihood of chipping a tooth. Wear a mouthguard during contact sports or any recreational activity with a risk of mouth injury. These devices cushion impacts and shield teeth. For individuals who grind their teeth, especially during sleep, a nightguard prevents direct tooth-on-tooth contact, minimizing wear and chipping.
Avoid certain foods to prevent chips. Limit chewing hard items like ice, hard candies, unpopped popcorn kernels, and nuts, which exert excessive pressure. Also, avoid using teeth as tools to open packages or bite nails, as this can lead to fractures. Consistent oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups, keeps tooth enamel strong and resilient against decay.