How to Prevent Chipped Teeth

One of the most common dental injuries is chipped teeth. Roughly 10% of people will chip their teeth at some point in their lives. In many cases, your dentist can fix your tooth and restore your smile. However, it is best to avoid chipping your teeth in the first place. Below, you will find tips outlining how to prevent chipped teeth.

While there are several different dental restorations to address chipped teeth, it is helpful to focus on preventing them from occurring in the first place. There are several helpful strategies to keep your teeth healthy. Consider the following information to ensure your teeth stay intact for the long haul.

Maintain A Healthy Oral Care Routine

Your oral health depends on the quality of your oral care routine. It is critical to brush and floss your teeth regularly. Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride. Electric toothbrushes are especially effective.

In addition to brushing twice daily, you should floss your teeth at least once a day. If you only floss once, floss in the evening. Regular brushing and flossing help remove leftover food particles and plaque from your teeth. A thorough dental care routine can strengthen your teeth and reduce the risk of chipping.

Attend Regular Dental Appointments

Regular dental appointments can ensure your teeth are healthy and strong. You should visit the dentist at least every six months for regular checkups. These checkups will include a cleaning, assessment of your teeth, and X-rays. Your dentist can identify potential oral health issues and leave you with a hygienic and healthy smile.

Tooth decay and gum disease can weaken your teeth and severely impact your oral health. If you have a history of decay or gum disease, your dentist may recommend more regular visits. Many of these oral health issues can be easily addressed with early intervention. Discuss with your dentist when and how often you should visit them. Closely follow their recommendations for optimal oral health.

Diet and Hydration

What you eat has a significant impact on your oral health, particularly the health of your teeth and gums. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is necessary to maintain their strength. Focus on a diet that is rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fat, and lean protein. Foods rich in Calcium and vitamin D can have a positive impact on your teeth. Avoid processed foods and foods high in sugar, as they can erode your enamel.

Staying hydrated also has a positive impact on your oral health. It promotes saliva production, which offers several health benefits, such as helping to neutralize acids in your mouth and remineralize your enamel. Both of which are essential in keeping your teeth healthy and strong. Drink at least 64 ounces of water daily for optimal oral health benefits.

Avoid Harmful Habits

There are several harmful habits that can degrade the health of your teeth. One of the most notable is chewing on hard objects, whether they are edible or not. Avoid biting down or chewing on ice or hard candies. Additionally, avoid biting down on pens or using your teeth as tools. These habits can easily damage your teeth.

Smoking is another harmful habit that can severely impact your oral health. It can weaken your tooth’s enamel and break down the bone and tissue that hold your teeth in place. Having the foundation of your teeth weakened this way can lead to serious issues, so you should avoid smoking to reduce your risk of dental and other damage.

Dental Restoration

If you have a damaged or chipped tooth, contact the team at Absolute Family Dentistry today to schedule an appointment!