Okay, …now that we’ve got your attention and you find that you can’t get that song out of your head, let’s talk about chewing ice. Do you chew ice? Occasionally? Habitually? You may even do it without thinking, but it can have a negative impact on your mouth, and you should be aware of the consequences of this seemingly harmless habit.
Damage to Your Tooth Enamel
Chewing on ice can lead to wear on the enamel which protects your teeth. This, in turn, can lead to teeth which crack or break and require dental treatment.
Teeth Sensitivity
The repeated process of chewing on ice can lead your teeth to have increased sensitivity to hot or cold causing your discomfort or pain.
More Prone to Cavities
The damage caused by chewing ice can also make you more prone to cavities due to the weakening of your enamel.
Gum Problems
When chewing on ice, you may find that sharp pieces may cause problems with your gums. The sharp edges produced by chewing ice may perforate your gums causing infections or other issues.
Iron Deficiency
The chewing and craving of ice (known and pagophagia) may also indicate an iron deficiency, although the reasons for this are not exactly known.
If you are a chewer of ice and have concerns about what your habit is doing to your teeth, give us a call today. We can give you a thorough checkup, repair any damage you may have, and keep an eye on your teeth during your future visits.
