Do you think of teeth as being weak? As you see them win battles day after day against a variety of foods, you probably don’t. However, teeth can be broken, and they break most often after they have been weakened. But just how is a broken tooth sustained? To find out, consult the following list provided by your Rochester MN dentist, Dr. Calcagno.
Three Things that Weaken Teeth
- Tooth decay. Tooth decay is caused by microscopic bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria attach themselves to teeth by forming plaque (a clear, sticky substance) and tartar (hardened plaque). Once attached to teeth, these bacteria will consume traces of sugar and give off an acid by product that can rob teeth of their enamel. As the damage builds, they will begin to delve deeper inside of the tooth creating a cavity. Unfortunately, the deeper these bacteria burrow, the more the structure of the tooth weakens, lessening the amount of force required to break it.
- Bruxism. Bruxism (teeth grinding) is typically a habit that occurs during sleep. Thus, those with bruxism habits are often unaware of them for prolonged periods of time. This means that the bruxism habit can weaken teeth as they grind against one another night after night. This continual strain can rob teeth of enamel and wear them down. Without treatment, the bruxism habit can eventually result in structural damage such as a crack, chip, or break.
- Force. If extreme force is applied to a tooth, it may crack, chip, or even break. This type of force typically occurs as an accident such as an unseen projectile, a powerful collision, or a sudden fall. If the force itself does not break the tooth but cracks or chips it, the tooth will remain in a weakened state, making it more prone to further damage. A dental crown, however, can repair the tooth and strengthen it.
Schedule a Visit with Your Rochester MN Dentist
Do you have a broken tooth in need of repair? Contact your Rochester MN dentist, Dr. Calcagno, today at (507) 281-3659 to schedule an appointment or a consultation for your child. We look forward to treating patients from Red Wing, St. Charles, Winona, Farmington, and surrounding communities.
