Can Chewing Ice Affect Your Dental Health?
Posted on 8/7/2023 by Fairmount Dental Center |
 Do you have the habit of chewing ice? If yes, you are not alone. For many people, chewing ice helps to deal with stress, fight a dry mouth, or stop bad habits such as smoking. Some view ice as a vital substance for cooling them down during hot days. Unfortunately, ice is the reason for many dental problems. Continue reading and learn how chewing ice can affect your oral health:
Chipped Or Cracked Teeth
Teeth are sturdy and durable. However, they are susceptible to chips and cracks if you crush hard substances like ice. Chipped or cracked teeth are dental emergencies, which, when ignored, can cause pain when biting and sensitivity to hot and cold. Fractures can also make you prone to cavities and tooth decay, which can result in infections if left untreated.
Damaged Tooth Enamel
The tooth enamel is a hard protective layer of the teeth. However, this doesn't mean that it cannot encounter damage. As you know, ice is hard. Hence, if crushed with your teeth, the enamel and ice can break each other. Over time, the damage can extend to the dentin, causing sensitivity. In extreme situations, a damaged tooth enamel can cause cavities.
Damage To The Existing Dental Work
Veneers, crowns, fillings, dentures, and dental implants are vital for improving the health of your mouth. While they are designed to last longer, chewing ice can dislodge or damage them, leading to costly dental repair.
Muscle Pain
Chewing ice requires muscle force. When this becomes a habit, you will likely experience temporomandibular joint disorder. This condition causes symptoms such as headaches, toothaches, jaw pain, difficulty chewing and speaking, and malocclusions. A good way to avoid all these oral issues is by quitting the habit of chewing ice. Our dental team can help you break this habit and turn to healthy alternatives.
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