Chewing ice is a common habit among American adults. However, it can damage the tooth enamel and gums since it is considered hard food. The most common damages include cracker or chipped teeth. Once it damages the tooth enamel, a heightened sensitivity to hot and cold food occurs, which can increase your risk of tooth decay or cavities. If you have fillings, crowns, or veneers, it can damage that dental work.
It is best to skip ice chewing altogether. If you have had any tooth damage, such as damaged enamel or a chipped tooth, call our holistic dentist in Miami right away. Delaying treatment can cause further damage.
If you love ice but want to cut your habit of chewing it, here are a few ways to stop.
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Skip the opportunity altogether. Do not order beverages with ice. Many people chew on the ice once their drink is empty, but you will not even have that opportunity if you do not have ice in your cup. Plus, you’ll get more of your beverage in your cup.
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Switch to shaved ice. Softer types of ice are much better for your teeth. It still allows you to indulge in the habit, but without the worry of damaging your teeth (just make sure you are not eating sno cones too often as they are loaded with sugar.)
If you find that you simply cannot shake the habit of chewing ice, contact holistic dentistry in Miami. An “addiction” to chewing ice could be a sign of an iron deficiency.
