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Why Chewing on Ice Can be Bad News for Your Teeth

August 8, 2021

Filed under: Uncategorized — martinezdentist @ 5:36 pm
woman chewing on ice

During the summer months, when the sun is at its strongest, the heat can send you hunting for cool, thirst-quenching beverages. You may even be tempted to chew on ice. While it may be quite refreshing, a local dentist says the satisfaction can come with a big price tag. Continue reading to find out how chewing on ice can eventually damage your teeth.

Understanding the Structure of Your Teeth

Your teeth are covered by a strong, protective layer called the enamel. Comprised of crystallized calcium phosphate, it’s the strongest material in the human body. The primary function of enamel is to protect the sensitive parts of your teeth from oral bacteria and food and beverage particles that could cause irreversible damage.

While enamel is extremely strong, it isn’t infallible. One of its main functions is to aid in chewing food. When teeth are used for other means, there is a greater chance of enamel damage.

Why Chewing Ice is Bad for Your Teeth

Chewing ice can lead to cracked or chipped teeth and require a sudden dental visit. By damaging your enamel, it can also cause sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures and leave you more prone to tooth decay. If you have existing dental work (fillings, crowns, veneers, etc.), chewing on ice can potentially damage them and send you back to your dentist in need of complex restorative care.

Alternatives to Chewing Ice

When the hot sun is beaming down or your body temperature is elevated from being active, you still need some relief. Here are some alternatives to nibbling on ice:

  • Let it melt – When you’re done drinking a beverage, it may seem like a waste to just toss the ice. Instead of chewing and potentially enduring a dental emergency, let the ice melt and drink it.
  • Drink iceless beverages – If the temptation to chew ice is too strong, avoid adding it to your beverage.
  • Switch to slush – A slush beverage provides the same chilling temperature of ice to cool you down without the risk of a dental emergency. Better yet, you can get them in multiple flavors.
  • Find the source of your craving – If you seem to have an overwhelming craving for ice, it could be a sign of an iron deficiency. Instead of speculating, you can request a blood test from your primary care physician.
  • Satisfy the crunch desire – Sometimes, chewing ice has more to do with satisfying a crunching sensation than the temperature. If this is the case for you, try substituting carrots, cucumber slices, apples or other foods with a similar texture.

Preventing a dental emergency starts with having the right information. The next step is to take action. In doing so, you can experience the best in oral health!

About the Author

Dr. Corey Martinez earned his dental degree from the Indiana University School of Dentistry. Throughout his career, he has been able to meet the varied needs of his patients, from preventive to emergency dentistry. Dr. Martinez protects teeth for lasting and healthy smiles at Martinez Dentistry, and he can be reached for more information or to schedule a visit through his website.

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