Cold Hard Facts: Why Chewing Ice Is Bad for Your Smile

When you finish a cold drink, do you find yourself reaching for the ice cubes that sit at the bottom of the glass? Whether you’re home or at a restaurant, you may find yourself munching on them. This may seem like a harmless habit, but it can actually cause a lot of trouble for your smile! You may end up in a dental emergency because of it! Here’s why you should try your best to avoid it and ways you can stop it.

Why Is It a Bad Idea to Chew Ice?

While ice can be an effective way to keep a drink cool, it’s both hard and brittle against your teeth. With each bite you take, you may be causing tiny cracks in your enamel. The more you do it, the bigger they’ll get, leading to serious damage or another oral health issue. You may be at a higher risk of decay and sensitivity.

Any restoration that you have may be impacted by this habit, just like natural teeth! Veneers, crowns, fillings, and dental implants (to name a few) can’t handle the pressure that chewing ice puts on your smile. It can end up breaking the investment you made, so you’ll need a replacement. So not only can it affect your grin, but also your wallet!

How Can I Break This Habit?

Eating these cold cubes may be instinctual for you if you’ve done it for a while. You may wonder exactly how you can stop chewing them, so here are some easy tips:

• Find out if your ice-munching habits are caused by an underlying issue, like an iron deficiency. Talking with your physician can help ensure you have the minerals and nutrients you need to keep your body healthy.
• Many people enjoy the cooling feeling it provides. To still get this effect, you can simply let a piece melt in your mouth or suck it without biting.
• There are also many alternatives you can try out, like slushies or shaved ice. They have additives in them that help make them much softer. However, these can be full of sugar, so make sure you brush and rinse your mouth afterward!
• A healthier option you can reach for is crunchy vegetables like cucumbers or carrots. They have a satisfying bite while providing your body with nutrients and vitamins.
• Consider using less ice or none at all, whether at home or at a restaurant! When you finish your drink, you may be less tempted to chew on a cube if there isn’t any in there. That way, you can do your best to avoid a dental emergency.

About the Practice

At The DFW Dental Implant Center, you benefit from the skilled leadership of Dr. Steven Branberg and Dr. Eric Cancemi. We are here to help the Colleyville community throughout their smile journey. By providing preventive care, we help you avoid a wide range of oral health issues, so that your grin stays problem-free. If you want to know how your ice-eating habits are affecting your teeth, schedule an appointment or call our office at (817) 440-7133.