Why Are My Child’s Teeth Chipping? Common Causes and What to Do
At Lolo Children’s Dentist, we understand that seeing your child’s tooth chip can be a stressful experience. Whether it’s from a fall, sports activity, or a hidden dental issue, chipped teeth are a common occurrence in children. It’s important to know what causes teeth to chip and how to handle the situation to ensure your child’s dental health is properly cared for.
Common Causes of Chipped Teeth in Children
1. Enamel Erosion
Tooth enamel is the strong, protective outer layer of a tooth, designed to shield the softer structures inside. However, enamel can wear down over time, especially when exposed to acidic foods and drinks. Repeated acid exposure softens the enamel, leaving the teeth more vulnerable to decay, cracks, and chips. If your child’s teeth have weakened enamel, they are at a higher risk for teeth chipping.
2. Facial Trauma
A sudden facial injury, such as a fall, car accident, or contact during sports, is a leading cause of chipped or broken teeth. Blunt force trauma can not only break or chip teeth but can also lead to dislodged or loosened teeth. In these cases, it’s essential to get immediate professional care to address both the tooth damage and any potential underlying issues.
3. Tooth Decay
When a child has untreated cavities, the tooth structure becomes weakened. Decay creates depressions in the tooth, exposing the softer inner layers. When chewing harder foods or even during normal activities, the weakened areas of the tooth can easily fracture, leading to chips or breaks. Regular checkups and addressing cavities early can prevent these types of injuries.
4. Growing Bodies and Activities
Children are naturally curious and active. Whether they’re learning to walk or playing sports, their teeth are at risk during falls or collisions. Toddlers learning to walk or older children playing rough sports may be more prone to tooth injuries.
What to Do If Your Child Chips a Tooth
It’s important to remain calm if your child chips a tooth. Unless your child is in pain or bleeding significantly, it’s usually not a serious emergency, but prompt action is important.
- Call the Dentist
Always contact Lolo Children’s Dentist for an emergency evaluation. Even if the injury seems minor, it’s essential to ensure there is no hidden damage to the tooth or underlying structures. - Rinse and Cool the Area
Rinse your child’s mouth with cold water to clean the area. Applying a cold compress to the outside of the mouth can help reduce any swelling that may occur. - Collect Tooth Fragments
If you find any pieces of the chipped tooth, store them in milk or water and bring them to the dentist. These fragments may be useful in certain treatments, such as reattachment. - Watch for Additional Symptoms
After a tooth is chipped, be mindful of your child’s discomfort. If the child is still in pain, soft foods may be easier for them to eat, and you can administer children’s ibuprofen (always confirm the correct dosage with your pediatric dentist or doctor). - Care for Baby Teeth
If the tooth lost is a baby tooth, while it’s not as concerning as a permanent tooth, you should still watch for potential issues such as discoloration or gum infection. Keep an eye on any swelling or tenderness, and if your child develops a fever, it may indicate an infection, which requires immediate attention from your pediatrician.
Preventing Chipped Teeth in the Future
While it’s not always possible to prevent teeth chipping, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk:
- Encourage Proper Oral Care
Help your child establish strong oral hygiene habits by brushing twice a day and flossing regularly. This can prevent issues like enamel erosion and tooth decay that make teeth more prone to damage. - Use a Mouthguard for Sports
When your child starts playing sports, a custom mouthguard is a great way to protect their teeth from trauma during physical activities. This simple preventive measure can save your child from more serious injuries. - Be Mindful During Developmental Stages
As toddlers are learning to walk, try to keep them in soft, carpeted areas to avoid falls. For older kids, remind them of the risks of rough play and the importance of keeping their mouths protected.
When to Seek Treatment for Chipped Teeth
If the chipped tooth is a baby tooth, it’s usually not a major concern, but it can still be aesthetically unappealing. If the chipped tooth is a permanent tooth, you may need to explore treatment options such as dental bonding, a filling, or a crown, depending on the severity of the damage.
Preserving Permanent Teeth
When permanent teeth are involved, the priority is always to preserve the integrity of the tooth. At Lolo Children’s Dentist, we will guide you through the best treatment options to ensure your child’s smile remains healthy and beautiful for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Teeth chipping can happen to any child, but with the right care, the situation can be managed effectively. If your child chips a tooth, don’t panic—contact Lolo Children’s Dentist for guidance and treatment. We’re here to help your child maintain healthy, happy smiles.
Please contact us at 406-284-8669 or contact our office to setup a consultation, evaluation or appointment. We are your expert child’s dentist in the Western Montana area. For more information on dentistry, procedures, reviews and more, give us a call. We have three dental offices to serve you in Lolo, Frenchtown, and Superior for Mineral County, Montana.