While it might seem natural to chew through the ice at the bottom of your cup, doing so could mean an extra trip to the family dentist. The urge to eat ice could even be a sign of other underlying conditions. Learn more below about ice chewing and how it damages your teeth. 

Why Do People Chew Ice?

For most people, the impulse to chew ice is likely just a habit and a reflex to having a chewable, edible object in their mouth. It's for the same reason that people are tempted to chew hard candy, despite knowing that it can damage their teeth.  

For others, though, chewing ice is a compulsive habit and may signify a nutrient deficiency or a condition called pica, caused by any of several nutrient deficiencies. Individuals with pica feel compelled to chew and eat substances that have no nutritional value. Hair, dirt, and ice are some of the most common substances eaten by those with pica. Although ice has no iron in it, it is particularly appetizing for people with iron deficiencies. The cold temperature of the ice increases blood flow to the brain, allowing the brain to access more of the iron already in the blood.

Why Is It Bad?

Chewing ice can damage your teeth in multiple ways. Because ice is hard and crystalline, it can easily scratch, chip, or even break your teeth. The temperature of ice also causes your teeth to cool rapidly, which makes your enamel contract and crack, leaving it weakened and vulnerable to further damage. This may mean more trips to your family dentist and more dental restorative dental work in the long term. 

If you have braces, retainers, or other oral fixtures, ice may damage those too. Damage to your braces means it takes longer and costs more to achieve your ideal smile. 

How Can I Stop?

If you compulsively chew ice, you should first talk to your dentist and your doctor about the possibility of a nutrient deficiency. They will help you take further steps toward resolving that issue. Next, you should determine what draws you to chewing ice. Is it the crunch, or is it the ice itself? If it's the crunch you crave, try substituting carrots or apple slices. On the other hand, if you're drawn to the ice itself, practice placing the ice on your tongue and sucking on it until it melts. 

If chewing ice has damaged your teeth, or if you just need a checkup, reach out to Cooper Family Dental for help. Caring for teeth in Gilbert, AZ, and the surrounding areas since 2013, this family dentist's office provides great service as soon as you walk through the door. Learn more about the services they offer online, and call (480) 964-1000 to make an appointment.