Dr. Douglas Ng., DDS of Nipomo
Family Dentistry, explores why teeth sometimes crack or break
despite their strength and resilience. He offers solutions to
improve oral health practices, helping you maintain healthy, strong
teeth and avoid discomfort, pain, and potential long-term dental
issues.
SAN LUIS
OBISPO, Calif., Aug. 10,
2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Teeth are strong and
designed to withstand the pressures of normal, daily use. However,
they do crack or break on occasion, leading to discomfort, pain,
and potential long-term dental issues. Dr. Douglas Ng., DDS of Nipomo Family Dentistry
takes a look at the top reasons teeth break and offers solutions
for improving oral health practices to keep teeth healthy and
strong.
Prevention is always the best approach and
practicing good oral hygiene is the first step.
The leading reasons for teeth breaking include:
- Teeth grinding (bruxism), chronic grinding or clenching teeth
exerts excessive force and friction on the teeth, leading to cracks
and fractures.
- Weak teeth—some individuals may have genetically weaker tooth
enamel or dentin (the inner layer of the tooth), making their teeth
more susceptible to breaking.
- Tooth decay and fillings weaken the teeth, making them more
prone to breaking under normal biting and chewing forces.
- Teeth with multiple or large fillings are weaker and more
likely to break compared to intact teeth.
- Biting down on extremely hard foods like popcorn kernels, hard
candies, or ice can cause teeth to chip or crack.
- Accidents, falls or blows to the mouth can directly damage and
fracture teeth.
- Frequent exposure to acidic foods and drinks like citrus
fruits, sodas, and wine can gradually erode and weaken the tooth
enamel, making teeth more susceptible to breaking.
- As people get older, their teeth naturally become weaker and
more prone to breaking due to years of wear and tear, reduced
saliva production, and decreased ability to repair.
- Lack of proper brushing and flossing can lead to gum disease,
tooth decay, and weakened tooth support structures, increasing the
risk of tooth breakage.
The Nipomo family dentist says
that prevention is always the best approach and practicing good
oral hygiene is the first step. Addressing any underlying causes
that damage teeth, and seeking prompt dental treatment for any
cracks or fractures can help prevent further tooth damage and
breakage. Practices that can help keep teeth in good health
include:
- Brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily. Using an
antiseptic mouthwash to reduce bacteria and plaque. Visiting the
dentist every six months for cleaning and examinations and promptly
addressing any oral health issues.
- If teeth grinding is an issue, wear a nightguard to help
protect the teeth. Practice stress-reducing techniques, meditation,
or therapy, because stress can contribute to bruxism
- Athletes can help prevent broken or cracked teeth by wearing a
mouthguard.
- Avoid chewing on hard foods like ice, hard candies, and popcorn
kernels.
- Try not to eat extremely hot and cold foods or beverages in
quick succession, as this can cause teeth to crack.
- Limit intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks that can
erode enamel.
- Include calcium-rich foods (like dairy products) and vitamin D
(like fortified cereals) to strengthen teeth.
- Don't use your teeth to open bottles, tear packages, or cut
objects.
- Drink plenty of water to maintain saliva flow, which helps
protect against tooth decay and wear.
- Quit smoking. Smoking can weaken teeth and gums, leading to
various dental problems that can increase the risk of tooth
fractures.
If, despite taking every possible precaution, a tooth cracks or
breaks, the Nipomo family dentist
advises that there are several procedures for repairing and even
replacing a tooth. Those options include bonding, veneers, crowns,
and dental implants.
The most appropriate treatment depends on the location and
extent of the crack or break, as well as the condition of the
surrounding teeth and gums. Your dentist evaluates your situation
and recommends the best option.
Dr. Ng has been providing families with dental care on the
Central Coast since 2008 and has dedicated his career to providing
the best care that dentistry has to offer. He is a member of the
American Dental Association, California Dental Association, and
Central Coast Dental Society. Service with local organizations
includes membership in the SLO Chapter of the Spear Study Club and
serving as the Continuing Education Chair for the Central Coast
Dental Society.
Nipomo Family Dentistry
195 N Thompson Ave Suite #3
Nipomo, CA 93444
(805) 929-1888
Media Contact
Scott Brennan, Access Publishing,
(805) 296-8025, scott@accesspublishing.com
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SOURCE Nipomo family