While chipping a back tooth isn't something everyone experiences, it is a relatively common dental issue, particularly affecting the chewing surfaces.
When a chip occurs on one of the pointed chewing surfaces of a back tooth, it's often referred to as a broken cusp. These molars and premolars bear significant force during chewing, making them susceptible to wear and accidental damage.
Understanding a Broken Cusp
A broken cusp is a specific type of chip that impacts the outer or inner points of your back teeth. Unlike chips on front teeth which might be immediately visible or cause sensitivity, a broken cusp on a back tooth might not always be noticeable or painful right away.
Key Characteristics:
- Location: Pointed chewing surfaces (cusps) of back teeth.
- Pain Level: This type of chipped tooth is rarely painful, although sensitivity can sometimes occur.
- Visibility: Often not as obvious as chips on front teeth.
What to Do if You Chip a Back Tooth
Even if there is no pain, a chipped back tooth, especially a broken cusp, should not be ignored.
According to dental information:
- It should be examined by a dental professional.
- An examination helps determine the extent of the damage and the best course of action.
- Leaving a chipped tooth untreated can lead to further damage, decay, or issues with your bite.
Potential Causes
Back teeth can chip due to various factors encountered during daily activities:
- Biting down on hard objects: Ice, hard candy, nuts, or even errant fruit pits.
- Teeth grinding (Bruxism): Chronic grinding puts excessive pressure on teeth.
- Trauma: An accidental blow to the mouth.
- Large or old fillings: These can weaken the remaining tooth structure.
- Cavities: Decay can weaken a tooth, making it more prone to chipping.
Treatment Options
Depending on the severity and location of the chip, a dental professional might recommend several treatment options to restore the tooth's function and prevent complications.
Here are common solutions:
| Treatment Option | Description | When It Might Be Used |
|---|---|---|
| Dental Bonding | Using a tooth-colored composite resin to fill in the chipped area. | Minor chips, often on less weight-bearing areas. |
| Dental Onlay | A partial crown made from porcelain, gold, or composite resin that covers one or more cusps. | To restore the shape of the tooth and prevent further damage or decay when a cusp is broken but the entire tooth doesn't need a full crown. |
| Dental Crown | A cap placed over the entire tooth. | To restore the shape of the tooth and prevent further damage or decay when the chip is extensive or the tooth is significantly weakened. |
| Filling | If the chip is small and confined, a simple filling might suffice. | Very minor chips or damage involving a small area. |
Choosing the right treatment is crucial for protecting the tooth and maintaining your dental health.
Prevention Tips
While chips can happen unexpectedly, you can take steps to reduce the risk:
- Avoid chewing on extremely hard items.
- If you grind your teeth, discuss a nightguard with your dentist.
- Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent cavities that weaken teeth.
- Wear a mouthguard during sports or activities where mouth injury is possible.
In conclusion, while not happening to every single person, chipping a back tooth, particularly a cusp, is a known dental issue. It requires professional evaluation to ensure proper treatment and prevent further problems, even if it isn't painful.
