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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 MouthThe 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 IceFor 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. |