Here at Astoria Dental Group, we’ve helped countless patients in and around Queens achieve healthy teeth and gums. Many times this is through advanced general dentistry, with a focus on restorating and improving dental health.
Chips and cracks on teeth are a common issue that we deal with at the practice. Let’s take a moment to consider some common causes of chips and cracks on the teeth.
Accidents While Eating
Sometimes when you’re having a meal or snacking, an unfortunate mishap can occur that leads to a chipped tooth. You may be at a movie theater eating popcorn when suddenly you bite down on an unpopped kernel. These kinds of unfortunate mishaps can lead to major chips and cracks. Be sure to eat slowly and savor your food when possible.
Biting or Chewing Hard Objects
It’s not uncommon for people to bite their fingernails when they’re nervous. Other bad habits similar to this include chewing on pen caps, nibbling on drink straws, and biting down on ice cubes. All of these actions can make chips and cracks more likely, if not causing a chip or crack on their own. Be sure to drop these bad habits for good dental health.
Similarly, some people use their teeth when they’re opening packages, which can lead to tooth damage. When you have a task that calls for scissors, be sure to use scissors instead of your teeth.
Contact Sports and Combat Sports Injuries
Sports such as football, hockey, boxing, and mixed martial arts (MMA) can all involve blows to the head and face that can lead to chipped teeth. This is why it’s important for people to wear protective mouth guards when participating in contact or combat sports.
We should also note that very physical sports that do not necessarily involve contact can result in mouth injuries. This includes basketball and soccer. Wearing a mouth guard when playing any kind of physical sport is a good option to consider to protect your teeth and tongue.
Injuries Sustained on the Job
If you work in construction, have an occupation that takes place at an industrial site, or operate major equipment or machinery that could be dangerous, injuries are a possibility. When working these kinds of jobs, be sure to wear all recommended head and face protection. This can prevent dental injuries and also protect you from other kinds of harm.
Vehicle Collisions
Whether you’re driving your car, taking your motorcycle for a spin, or riding your bike, accidents can happen wherever you go. The trauma sustained can be major or minor. Whenever you’re operating a vehicle of any kind, be sure to use safety restraints and/or wear helmets. These can keep you safe if an accident happens.
Slip and Fall Accidents
A slip or a fall can lead to major injuries. This goes for the teeth as well as other parts of your body. While slips and falls can be difficult to avoid, be sure to use bannisters when ascending and descending stairs, and to be mindful of guardrails that are located near ledges of a structure.
Fights, Assaults, and Other Physical Altercations
Many victims of physical violence are often struck in the head or face, or they are struck in the body in such a way that chips are likely. If you are seriously harmed in a fight or attack, be sure to seek immediate medical attention.
Get More Information About Good Dental Care
If you would like more information about the causes of chipped teeth and what you can do to ensure your smile is healthy for years to come, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry center today. The entire team at Astoria Dental Group will work closely with your to ensure your dental health is the best that it can be.
