{"id":170,"date":"2021-08-10T19:26:00","date_gmt":"2021-08-10T19:26:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.dereksongdmd.com\/blog\/?p=170"},"modified":"2021-09-10T19:29:07","modified_gmt":"2021-09-10T19:29:07","slug":"how-chewing-on-ice-can-damage-your-smile","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.dereksongdmd.com\/blog\/2021\/08\/10\/how-chewing-on-ice-can-damage-your-smile\/","title":{"rendered":"How Chewing on Ice Can Damage Your Smile"},"content":{"rendered":"
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After finishing an ice-cold drink, do you like to chew on the leftover ice cubes? It\u2019s a common habit that most people are guilty of, especially during the hot summer months. Unfortunately, chewing on ice is not as harmless as it may seem. You\u2019ve probably been told to kick that habit to the curb, but are you having a hard time doing so? Read on to learn how it can damage your smile and a few alternatives so you can safely get your fix.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Why Do People Chew on Ice?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You might be wondering what gives someone the urge to chew on ice. Well, it could be one of two things. Some do it out of boredom or as a form of stress relief \u2013 others might be because they\u2019re iron deficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The scientific name for the compulsive consumption of ice or iced drinks is pagophagia<\/strong>. It\u2019s the most common form of pica<\/strong>, which is the medical term for craving or chewing on items that have little or no nutritional value (ice, clay, chalk, dirt). Studies suggest that anemics are compelled to chew on ice because the coolness of the ice cubes soothes inflammations caused by iron deficiencies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Does Chewing Ice Damage Teeth?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Chewing on ice might not be as harmful as other addictions, but it can still have detrimental effects on your oral health<\/a>. It can cause chipped or cracked teeth, enamel erosion, sore jaw muscles, and even problems with existing dental work like crowns, veneers, and fillings. As a result of these issues, your teeth can become sensitive and more susceptible to cavities, decay, or even gum disease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tips to Break an Ice-Chewing Habit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Are you having trouble kicking this habit to the curb? Here are a few tips and tricks to help you out:<\/p>\n\n\n\n