Chipped teeth and dental fractures can cause discomfort and tooth sensitivity issues. Even if the affected tooth doesn’t give you any trouble the damaged tooth enamel could eventually lead to the formation of a severe cavity that requires invasive treatment.

After treating the chipped tooth with a dental filling or a dental crown restoration a dentist like Dr. Mike Christensen might also advise you to address the initial cause of the problem. Making simple changes in your daily habits can often go a long way toward preventing new dental fractures.

It’s best to address any bad oral habits such as nervously nibbling on pencils and pens can potentially chip a tooth, crunching on ice or biting your fingernails. The unnatural force applied to teeth from these activities can potentially chip tooth enamel.

Patients who grind their teeth at night or fail to wear a protective mouth guard when participating in rigorous sports are also at increased risk of suffering a fractured tooth. Fortunately, these threats can often be prevented by using a dental guard or a quality mouth guard.

Making sure to brush your teeth each morning and night with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste as well as flossing your teeth once each day can also help you to maintain strong tooth enamel.

If you live in the Orem, Utah, area and you recently suffered a chipped or fractured tooth, you can call 801-375-9511 to have it treated at Merit Dental.