Everyday Habits That Increase Your Risk of a Broken Tooth

by | Mar 23, 2026 | Emergency Dentistry

A broken tooth can happen when you least expect it. You might be eating, working, or even sleeping! In some cases, a broken, cracked, or chipped tooth may require emergency dentistry in Las Vegas, NV. That means knowing how to avoid dental damage could keep you out of the dentist’s chair.

Even if you do everything right, accidents can still happen. So, if you’re dealing with a damaged tooth, get restorative care with Drs. Ann Pham and Halan Tran at Miracle Dental. Call our top-rated emergency dentists in Las Vegas, NV, at (702) 456-0056 for an appointment now!

Your Teeth Are Strong…But Not THAT Strong

Here’s something surprising: Research shows that tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body. Yet, it can still crack under repeated stress or pressure over time.

This means your teeth are strong but not unbreakable. Unfortunately, small habits can slowly weaken them and lead to a broken tooth.

Chewing Ice

Chewing ice may seem harmless, but it is a common cause of tooth damage. Ice is both hard and cold, which is a destructive combo. The temperature change causes enamel to contract, and chewing on hard items can cause contracted enamel to crack under the pressure. 

This means that one strong bite can lead to a broken tooth, especially if your enamel is already weak.

Eating Hard or Sticky Foods

Hard candies and sticky treats can be risky. Biting down on hard candy can create sudden force that breaks teeth. Sticky foods, like caramel, can pull on dental work or weak spots, leaving previously injured teeth vulnerable.

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Do you grind your teeth at night? Many people do, and they don’t even realize it until our Vegas dentists point it out.

Grinding puts constant and immense pressure on your teeth. Over time, this pressure creates tiny cracks. These cracks can grow and lead to a broken tooth. Unfortunately, you may not notice it until damage is already done.

Using Teeth as Tools

Opening packages with your teeth might save time, but it is very risky. Your teeth are not tools. Using them this way can cause sudden fractures. This is a fast way to end up with a painful, broken tooth.

Sudden Temperature Changes

Switching quickly between hot and cold foods can stress your teeth. For example, sipping hot coffee and then drinking ice water can cause expansion and contraction. Over time, this stress may lead to cracks and a broken tooth.

Skipping Dental Care

Poor oral care at home can weaken your teeth. Plus, skipping regular exams and cleanings at Miracle Dental allows minor damage to get worse, eventually leading to a broken tooth. 

That’s why it’s important to book a visit with our team every six months. Otherwise, you risk minor damage becoming much more painful and expensive to treat later.

Playing Sports Without Protection

High-contact or extreme sports increase your risk of dental injury. A sudden hit to the face can cause serious damage. Without a mouthguard provided by your Vegas dentists, you are more likely to experience a broken tooth.

Broken Tooth? The Miracle Dental Team Is Here for You

A broken tooth often starts with negative daily habits. The good news is that you can lower your risk with simple changes.

However, accidents happen to the best of us. So, if you have dental damage or pain that you’d like to treat now, click here to book an emergency visit at Miracle Dental. You can also call our dentists in Las Vegas, NV, at (702) 456-0056 for emergency dental advice now.