Why Are My Teeth Chipping?

A chipped tooth can happen to anyone. Maybe you bit down on something hard or caught the edge of a tooth on a fork. But if you keep noticing little chips, rough edges, or pieces breaking off, it is worth paying attention. Teeth usually do not start chipping over and over for no reason. Sometimes the problem is minor, but repeated chipping can be a sign that the tooth is under more stress than it should be.

Why are my teeth chipping all of a sudden?

Sometimes a tooth has been getting weaker for a while before anything actually breaks. A large filling, a small crack, worn enamel, or a cavity can all leave a tooth more vulnerable. Then something pretty normal, like chewing a crunchy food, is enough to cause a chip. Age can play a part too, since teeth naturally go through years of wear.

Could I be grinding my teeth?

Possibly. A lot of people grind or clench at night and do not know they are doing it. Over time, that pressure can wear down the edges of your teeth and cause small cracks or chips. Other clues include waking up with a sore jaw, headaches, or teeth that look flatter than they used to. If grinding is the issue, a nightguard may help protect your teeth from further damage.

Why do my front teeth keep chipping?

The edges of the front teeth are thinner, so they can take a beating from everyday habits. Nail biting, chewing on pens, opening things with your teeth, and grinding can all wear them down. Your bite can also play a role. If one tooth hits harder than the others, it may keep chipping in the same spot.

Can a cavity cause a tooth to break?

Yes. Decay weakens the tooth, and sometimes there is more damage underneath the surface than you can see. A tooth can chip or break before you ever have a toothache. The same thing can happen around an older filling if there is not much natural tooth left to support it.

Does enamel wear have anything to do with it?

It can. Enamel is strong, but it can wear down over time. Acidic drinks, frequent snacking on acidic foods, acid reflux, and normal wear can all thin the enamel. When that happens, teeth may become more sensitive and easier to chip.

What should I do if I chip a tooth?

Try not to chew on that tooth until you can have it checked. A very small chip may only need to be smoothed or bonded. A larger break may need a filling or crown. If the tooth hurts, feels very sensitive, or has a sharp edge, call your dentist sooner rather than later. Even a painless chip is worth checking if you are not sure how much of the tooth was affected.

When should I worry about chipped teeth?

One small chip after biting something hard is usually different from teeth that keep breaking for no obvious reason. Repeated chipping can point to grinding, decay, bite problems, worn enamel, or older dental work that needs attention.

If you have chipped a tooth or keep noticing new rough edges, call our office to schedule an appointment. We can take a look, find out what is causing the problem, and talk through the best way to fix it.

Related Article: Is a Chipped Tooth Serious?