Whether or not teeth chip with age is a question that is actually a bit more complicated than it may appear on the surface. While your teeth don’t have an expiration date where they will begin to chip and break, there are certain lifestyle factors that will increase the likelihood of chipped or damaged teeth over time.
Reasons for a Chipped Tooth
There are a few reasons you may chip a tooth. These include:
* Bruxism. Teeth clenching and grinding can be extremely damaging to your teeth. Over time, this can lead to chips and cracks in your teeth. While “age” isn’t necessarily a factor, time definitely is. The longer you wait to treat bruxism, the higher the chances that your teeth will become chipped and damaged.
* An accident. Accidents happen. The only real connection with age is possibly slower reflexes (making it more difficult to catch yourself when you fall). Otherwise, accidents are simply a part of life that can lead to chipping a tooth.
* Tooth decay. Compromised teeth lead to an increased chance of chipping. So, tooth decay can be a major factor as to whether a tooth will chip or not. As you get older, the chances of tooth decay increase so, in that respect, the chances of chipping a tooth increase.
* Chewing on hard objects. Chewing on hard objects like candy, ice, and pen caps can damage and even chip your teeth.
What Should I Do If I Chip a Tooth?
If you chip your tooth, don’t panic. Chipped teeth can often be restored with relative ease. You’ll never grow that portion of your tooth back, but you can undergo treatment to restore the appearance and even functionality of the tooth.
If you end up chipping a tooth, here are some things you should do:
* Rinse your mouth out with salt water after the injury.
* Book an appointment with your dentist.
* Only eat soft foods and try to avoid using the tooth.
* Take over-the-counter pain medication if your tooth is hurting.
What Treatment Options Are Available for Chipped Teeth?
If you chip a tooth, you may be wondering what treatment options are available. Some of the most common options for the treatment of a chipped tooth include:
* Dental bonding
* Dental veneers
* Dental crowns
Which option your dentist chooses will depend on the severity of the chip, location, and other factors. Each of these restoration methods have their advantages and drawbacks, but all of them are better than not having a chipped tooth restored.
Reach Out Today
If you are worried about chipping a tooth simply due to age, you shouldn’t. With that said, if you haven’t been to the dentist in a while for a cleaning and checkup, your chances of chipping a tooth increase.
Reach out today to schedule an appointment for a cleaning and checkup. Your dentist will uncover any issues that may lead to you chipping your teeth in the future and resolve them—allowing your teeth to stay healthy and whole.