Why Chewing Ice Is Bad for Your Teeth
Out of anxiety or nerves, you’ve probably absentmindedly started chewing on something you weren’t supposed to. That category might include ice. And you might wonder why you’re drawn to chomping on something as cold as ice. According to dentist Karyn Kahn, DDS, it could be because it’s soothing.
Dangers of chewing ice
In short — there are many downsides. “Chronic ice chewing could be very detrimental to your health and your teeth,” says Dr. Kahn.
For starters, you don’t have to chew ice all the time for it to be an issue. Even just chewing ice a little too forcefully once or twice could lead to issues. “It doesn’t take much biting force to fracture a tooth, especially if the tooth has tiny cracks already,” she says. “Even just eating a piece of bread can fracture a tooth if there are already cracks.”
Can chip fillings, crowns and restorations
Fillings and crowns can chip or break easily, Dr. Kahn notes, especially if you’re biting on a tooth that’s already somewhat compromised.
“White crowns are made from a type of porcelain,” she continues. “Some porcelains are stronger than others, but they can still crack or break.”
These breaks can occur if you’re putting stress on your teeth in other ways. For example, it isn’t uncommon to have porcelain fractures if you’re an ice chewer who also grinds and clenches your teeth.
Other tooth restorations in addition to these fillings can also be damaged if you bite down too hard in one area.
How to stop chewing ice
In general, if you’re chewing ice every single day, Dr. Kahn says it’s a sign something is likely going on — whether that points to an iron deficiency, stress or anxiety.
“If you’re chewing on ice one time, it’s not compulsive behavior,” she continues. “But chronic chewing can indicate some emotional concerns.”
For some people who chew ice, the cold sensation is what’s soothing. So, instead of chewing ice, just let it melt in your mouth or blend crushed ice into slushies.