Chewing Ice Puts Teeth At Risk

Chewing ice is a dangerous habit that can damage your teeth. Not only can it chip or crack your teeth, but it can also wear down your teeth’s enamel and make them more sensitive.

Why is chewing ice bad for you?

Some of the main reasons why chewing ice is bad for you is that it is very hard on your teeth and it can cause tooth fractures and damage enamel. When ice is chewed, the teeth are forced into their sockets. This can cause a lot of pain, but it can also potentially put teeth at risk for broken or chipped teeth.

Additionally, when ice is chewed, it pushes against the teeth at a fast speed. This causes them to experience a lot of wear and tear. Over time, this could result in weakened teeth that are more prone to infection.

To avoid these negative side effects, consider drinking water when you feel the need to chew on something. Water doesn’t harm the teeth, and it hydrates the body at the same time. If you must eat something, choose healthier alternatives like a piece of fruit, crackers, or even sugar-free gum.

How to avoid chewing ice?

Avoid chewing on hard foods like ice and popcorn kernels. If you absolutely must bite down on something, use a softer object like a piece of sugar-free gum or a piece of fresh carrot. Stick to drinking water when you’re thirsty—bubbly drinks such as soda and sweet tea are hard on your teeth. Also, be aware of how much sugar is hiding in processed foods and drinks—it’s everywhere! For the sake of your dental health, try to reduce sugary treats as much as possible. Over time, you’ll retrain your taste buds to enjoy naturally sweet vegetables, fruits, and other beverages instead. Or, if you just can’t say no to sweets, try to brush your teeth as soon as possible after eating them to reduce the chances of tooth decay. A dentist can help you with restorative dental care treatments, such as fillings and crowns if needed. Make an appointment today to get started.

The alternatives to chewing ice

If you often find yourself craving something cold, drinking cold water or sucking on sugar-free hard candy is a much better alternative than chewing on ice. Water is good for your teeth because it washes away bacteria, and sugarless hard candies contain little or no added sugar, so they won’t damage your teeth. Additionally, drinking water after you eat helps rinse food particles and sugars away from your teeth before they can cause cavities.

Call us or schedule an appointment online if you need any help to quit the habit.