Chewing on ice seems like a harmless way to cool yourself off during hot summer months, but it can actually lead to oral health issues. The habit is more common than you might think. A lot of people mindlessly chew on ice because they enjoy the cool rush and crunch, but it’s better to stop now rather than later to save your smile for years to come! Here’s how chewing on ice affects your teeth.
The Effects of Chewing on Ice
Just like when you eat other hard foods, chewing on ice can damage your teeth, enamel, and gums. It can cause cracked or chipped teeth, sore jaw muscles, or tooth sensitivity. In addition, if you have existing dental work like fillings or crowns, chewing on hard substances can damage them, meaning you’ll have to make a trip to the dentist.
While these dental issues might seem minor, they can actually lead to worse oral health issues. Your enamel protects your teeth against cavities and the sugars and acids of your favorite foods. If you damage your enamel, you’ll leave your teeth prone to dental problems.
Alternatives to Chewing on Ice
If you need some help shaking the habit of chewing ice, you can try some of the following alternatives:
- Let it melt – Try letting the ice cubes melt in your mouth slowly to get that satisfying cold refreshment.
- Switch to slush – Replace your ice cubes with softer types such as shaved ice, slushies, or crushed ice.
- Order with no ice – When you’re at a restaurant, ask for your drink with no ice to resist temptation.
- Find a different crunch – Carrot sticks, celery sticks, apple slices, or cucumber slices can all provide the same crunchy fix. The fiber from crisp fruits and vegetables can help clean your teeth, too!
Sometimes you just can’t resist the crunch! Talk to your dentist if chewing on ice is impossible to resist. There might be an underlying cause like pica or an iron deficiency. Now, you can stay cool this summer without hurting your smile in the process.
About the Practice
At Brown, Reynolds, Snow, Lenoir Dentistry, our priority is helping you maintain your oral health and achieve your smile goals. We offer a comprehensive range of services to patients of all ages in the Richmond area. The practice provides dental checkups and teeth cleanings, oral cancer screening, fluoride treatment, and nightguards to protect your smile for years to come. If you’re wanting to better and preserve your oral health, contact Brown, Reynolds, Snow, Lenoir Dentistry at their website or by phone at (804) 288-5324.