Please check out our Office News page to stay current on all the latest news from the office.
How Gums and Teeth Can Get Damaged from Chewing on Ice
Posted on 9/25/2019 by Dr. Elizabeth Vivona
In the heat of the summer, a cold drink filled with ice is a great way to cool off. However, if you have a habit of chewing on ice as you enjoy your beverage, you're likely putting your teeth and gums at risk. These are a few ways that your mouth could be injured by chewing on ice.
What Chewing on Ice Does to Your Mouth
The damage associated with chewing on ice can lead to major oral health problems. When you chew ice, your teeth are at risk for chips and cracks. You could break the enamel, and if the inner layers of these teeth are impacted, you make experience considerable pain. Sensitivity will also result, especially when drinking or eating foods of high or low temperature extremes. Chewing on ice could also cut the gums and lead to problems with crowns, fillings, and other dental restorations.
How to Stop Chewing Ice
For some people, chewing on ice is more of a habit rather than something they really enjoy doing. If you find that you are craving ice, you may need to visit your doctor to see if you have anemia or any other medical problem that could lead to this habit.
If a medical issue isn't to blame for your ice chewing, you can find a satisfying alternative. Suck on ice cubes instead of chewing them, or crush them up in a food processor to create a slushy mix. If the satisfying crunching sound is what you are after, there are plenty of healthy veggies like carrots and celery that can offer this effect without the potential to damage your teeth.
Has your mouth been injured by chewing on ice, or are you in need of a dental cleaning this summer? Give our office a call today to set up your next appointment.
What Our Patients Are Saying About Us.
"Without a doubt the best dental office I've ever been a patient of. The dentists and their hygienists are all very friendly and knowledgable, and they do their best to make you as comfortable as possible. I haven't tried other dentists in Eugene, but I know I'm not alone in my opinion here… definitely recommend!" ~ Timothy
"Dr. Vivona was recommended to me by a friend and I couldn't be happier with my experience. While I wish I didn't need dental work, my experience with her has been great. She takes her time to make sure she's properly diagnosing. While doing the work, she was gentle, thorough and explained everything along the way, making sure I was comfortable. I highly recommend her" ~ Audrey
"I was greeted as I was walking in the door by two wonderful assistants. The hygienist was wonderful and encouraging through the whole exam. Over all the staff is the best I’ve encountered through dental and would recommend Dr. Vivona to anyone looking for quality and gentle care." ~Kimmi
In the heat of the summer, a cold drink filled with ice is a great way to cool off. However, if you have a habit of chewing on ice as you enjoy your beverage, you're likely putting your teeth and gums at risk. These are a few ways that your mouth could be injured by chewing on ice. 
