3 Surprising Causes of a Chipped Tooth

About 74% of adults think an unattractive smile can hurt them professionally, according to an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry survey. However, cracked or chipped teeth are more common than many patients think, and without proper treatment, they will continue to affect your smile and overall dental health. Most people understand the main causes of chipped teeth, but there are several causes that many would consider surprising as well. Here are just a few surprising causes of chipped teeth.

Large Cavities

If you get a cavity and don’t seek treatment, you’re putting the surrounding teeth at risk of cracking or breaking. Many people don’t notice their cavities as soon as they develop, and the bottom line is that a large cavity, when left untreated, can weaken the teeth and risk a chipped tooth.

Tongue or Cheek Piercings

If you have a piercing in your tongue or cheek, you ought to know that you may be putting your teeth at a higher risk of sustaining a crack or chipped tooth. If you think about it, it makes sense; any oral piercing will be introducing a foreign metal object into your mouth, and when it moves around, there’s a definite risk of causing damage to the enamel. Similarly, oral piercings can cause receding gums, so it may be best to think twice before getting one and to take care of it properly if you decide to follow through.

Having a ‘Bad Bite’

Finally, you may have a higher risk of chipping or cracking a tooth simply because of your natural bite. It’s certainly unfortunate, but the fact is that depending on how your teeth are naturally aligned, some may be put under much greater pressure or force than others, causing more chips and cracks. However, a dentist should be able to see the signs, so make sure to keep up with your regular visits.

Ultimately, about 32% of people say they’re ‘concerned by the look of their teeth,’ and even the smallest crack or chip can affect how someone perceives their smile and overall confidence. Understanding these surprising potential causes of chipped teeth can help you prioritize dental care and take better care of your smile for years to come. For more information about dealing with a broken tooth, dental crowns, or dental veneers, contact StateLine Dental.