What is a chipped tooth?

The part of a tooth that can be chipped is usually the enamel. Whilst tooth enamel is incredibly durable and strong, it is somewhat brittle and can still be damaged by long-term wear and tear or force. A “chipped tooth” usually results in a jagged tooth edge that can be rough on the tongue and aesthetically unpleasant.

Symptoms of a chipped tooth

• Usually, a chipped tooth does not cause any symptoms but you may be able to tell the damage by running your tongue over your teeth. The area that is chipped will feel jagged and uneven.
• It is also possible to feel pain when pressure is exerted on the tooth when chewing or biting. This is the case where the chip has exposed the dentine.

What is the most common cause of a chipped tooth?

A chipped tooth may happen as a pure accident on an otherwise healthy tooth when there is a strong and sudden force that causes the enamel to break. This could be the case when someone tried to bite on something very hard, like hard candy or ice, or an object.

However, these chips are more likely to happen on teeth that have suffered from wear or that are already restored. The factors that can lead to weaker teeth are:

• Teeth grinding (Bruxism) places extraordinary pressure on teeth that accelerates wear and tear and can lead to weakened tooth enamel.
• Excessive consumption of acidic food and drink such as juices, vinegar, coffee, alcohol, fizzy drinks etc.
• Conditions such as acid reflux, heartburn or excessive vomiting can bring up stomach acid that will weaken the enamel.
• Tooth decay, caused by poor oral hygiene, can weaken, and reduce tooth enamel.
• Previously restored teeth will be more susceptible to accidents.
• Natural aging and wear and tear, over time, can contribute to weakened tooth enamel.