Problems from a Chipped Tooth

Problems from a Chipped Tooth

Despite our best efforts to look after them, there are lots of different problems that can affect our teeth. Some are more likely than others, and a chipped tooth is one of the most prevalent issues seen by dentists across the country. It may not seem like a serious dental injury, but the truth is that a chipped tooth can have significant consequences for someone who experiences this problem.

Causes of a chipped tooth

There are many different reasons why a tooth may be chipped. Some of the most common include:

-          Trauma caused by biting down on a hard substance, such as hard candy, rock cake or ice

-          Playing contact sports without using a protective mouthguard

-          Falling and hitting your mouth on an object or the floor

-          Grinding your teeth (a condition called bruxism)

-          Weakened tooth enamel, which can occur for many reasons including acid reflux, excessive alcohol use, eating disorders and poor dental hygiene

Signs that you have a chipped tooth

Contrary to what many people believe, it is possible not to realize that you have chipped your tooth, especially if the damage is minor and hasn’t occurred to the teeth at the very front of your mouth. In these instances, you will need to rely on identifying symptoms that you might experience that indicates you have chipped your tooth. These include, but are not limited to:

-          Being able to feel a jagged surface when you use your tongue to feel your teeth

-          Abrasions and soreness of the tongue, which is caused by your tongue repeatedly coming into contact with the sharp or uneven surface where the tooth has been chipped

-          Irritation of the gum around the chipped tooth

-          Dental pain which is particularly significant when you bite, the severity of which can increase if the chip is close to the nerves within the teeth

If you suspect that you may have chipped a tooth, you shouldn’t delay in seeking the advice of your dentist. This can prevent further damage and any unpleasant symptoms that you may be experiencing.

Problems that can arise from a chipped tooth

A chipped tooth may not sound like a severe dental problem, but left untreated, it can cause a number of different problems. Some of these lead to more serious issues in the future that could even threaten the longevity of your teeth.

Abrasions

When you chip your tooth, you can be left with sharp bits of enamel that can potentially scratch or cut the soft tissues inside your mouth. This includes the cheek, tongue, and gums. Abrasions are sore and can make eating and drinking painful and difficult.

Infections

Deep chips in your teeth can have an impact on the root of the tooth, exposing it to bacteria and putting it at risk of infection. When infections affect the root, antibiotics are rarely helpful and root canal treatment may be needed to save the tooth.

Decay

When bacteria penetrate deep chips in your teeth, they can cause areas of decay to develop. Unless decay is spotted early on, it can quickly spread and affect the entire tooth, even passing onto neighboring teeth if left for long enough. Dental decay can result in the need for a filling or crown, or even end in tooth loss if you are unable to get it under control.

Sensitivity and bad breath

Patients who have considerable chips in their teeth are also more likely to experience issues such as tooth sensitivity (which causes pain) and bad breath.

Repairing a chipped tooth

The good news is that it is fairly straightforward to repair most instances of a chipped tooth. Often, the chip can be filled with a dermal bonding material so that the tooth reverts to its regular appearance. Severe chips may require the patient to have a crown so that the tooth is protected from future infections and associated problems. It is important to bear in mind that if the tooth root has been affected in any way, it may be advisable for you to have a root canal procedure before a restoration is placed.

If you are concerned you may have a chipped tooth, or if you would like to schedule an appointment to discuss this type of dental injury, please contact our office.