Why Do Teeth Break?

Teeth are naturally strong. In fact, tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body. Yet even with this strength, teeth can still chip, crack, or break under certain circumstances. When a tooth becomes damaged, it’s more than just a cosmetic concern; it can cause pain, sensitivity, and leave the tooth vulnerable to infection. At Eastern Virginia Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, our dentists often treat patients who experience broken or fractured teeth for a variety of reasons. Understanding what causes teeth to break can help you take preventive steps and know when to seek professional care.

Common Reasons Teeth Break

1. Chewing Hard Foods

One of the most frequent causes of broken teeth is biting into something unexpectedly hard. Foods like ice, hard candies, unpopped popcorn kernels, and even certain nuts can put tremendous pressure on your teeth. If your tooth enamel is already weakened from wear or decay, it may crack or chip more easily. Our dentists recommend avoiding chewing on hard objects and being cautious with particularly tough foods to protect your teeth from unnecessary strain.

2. Large Fillings or Previous Dental Work

When a tooth has a large filling or extensive decay, its remaining structure may be compromised. Large fillings replace significant portions of the natural tooth, which can make it more brittle and prone to cracking over time. Additionally, repeated dental work on the same tooth can further weaken its structure. If a tooth with a large filling starts to break down, our dentists may recommend a dental crown to restore its strength and function. A crown covers the visible surface of the tooth, generally offering superior protection compared to a filling.

3. Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism)

Bruxism, the habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, especially during sleep, is another leading cause of broken or cracked teeth. This constant pressure can wear down enamel, create small fractures, and eventually cause pieces of the tooth to break off. Since many people are unaware they grind their teeth at night, signs such as jaw soreness, morning headaches, or tooth sensitivity may be the first indicators of bruxism.

To help prevent further damage, our dentists may recommend wearing a custom nightguard. A nightguard is a removable oral appliance that fits over your teeth and acts as a comfortable cushion to absorb grinding forces. This simple solution can often go a long way in protecting your teeth from breaking.

4. Injury or Trauma

Accidents happen, whether it’s a fall, a sports-related impact, or even an unexpected blow to the face. A sudden injury can cause a tooth to crack, chip, or break completely. Wearing a mouthguard during contact sports and taking proper safety precautions can help minimize the risk of dental injuries. If a tooth does break due to trauma, prompt treatment is essential. Our dentists can assess the extent of the damage and determine the best way to restore the tooth, whether through bonding, a crown, or another restorative option.

5. Age and Natural Wear

Over time, normal chewing, biting, and exposure to acids can weaken enamel. Older adults are especially prone to cracked or broken teeth because of years of accumulated wear. Small fractures may form in the enamel and gradually deepen. Regular dental checkups allow our team to identify early signs of wear and recommend preventative care to keep your teeth strong and healthy.

What to Do If a Tooth Breaks

If you notice a chipped or broken tooth, it’s important to contact our office as soon as possible. Even if the damage seems minor, small cracks can worsen and lead to infection if left untreated. In the meantime, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area and avoid chewing on the affected side. If the tooth feels sharp or rough, covering it with dental wax or sugar-free gum can help protect your tongue and cheeks until you can see our dentists.

Treatment Options for Broken Teeth

The right treatment for a broken tooth typically depends on the severity of the damage:

• Dental Bonding: For small chips or cracks, cosmetic bonding can restore the tooth’s appearance and function. A tooth-colored resin is applied, shaped, and polished to blend in with your natural teeth.
• Dental Crowns: If a significant portion of the tooth is broken or weakened, a crown may be recommended. Dental crowns encase the damaged tooth to restore strength and protect it from further breakage.
• Dental Bridges: When a tooth is too damaged to be saved and must be extracted, a dental bridge can replace it. A bridge uses adjacent healthy teeth (or dental implants) as anchors to hold a natural-looking prosthetic tooth in place.
• Root Canal Therapy: If a crack extends into the inner pulp of the tooth, a root canal may be necessary to remove infected tissue and save the tooth before placing a crown.
• Nightguard Therapy: For patients with bruxism, wearing a nightguard can help prevent future damage to both natural teeth and dental restorations.

How to Prevent Teeth from Breaking

While not every incident can be avoided, there are several steps you can take to lower your risk:

• Avoid chewing on hard foods, ice, or non-food objects like pens.
• Wear a mouthguard when playing sports.
• Use scissors or tools instead of your teeth to open packages.
• Address tooth decay early before it weakens the structure.
• If you grind your teeth, talk to our dentists about getting a custom nightguard.
• Schedule regular dental visits so potential issues can be identified before they cause serious damage.

Restore Your Smile with Expert Care

A broken tooth doesn’t have to disrupt your life or your confidence. At Eastern Virginia Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, our experienced dentists provide personalized care using advanced restorative solutions like crowns, bridges, and custom nightguards to protect and strengthen your smile. Whether your tooth broke from an injury, biting something hard, or years of grinding, we’ll help you restore both the health and beauty of your smile.

If you’ve recently broken a tooth or suspect you may be grinding your teeth at night, contact our office today to schedule an appointment. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve a strong, healthy, and confident smile that lasts for years to come.