As a pediatric dentist I often get questions from parents or patients about chewing ice. They want to know the reasons why some people like it and whether it can damage teeth.
While ice chewing and crunching can be irritating for those sitting around the table it is a relaxing activity, especially for those with dry mouths.
It can also be used to reduce stress and improve relaxation. People may chew ice to satisfy their hunger cravings in certain cases. It can simulate the feeling of eating, but without the need for calories.
Others may find ice cubes a way of life.
It's dangerous
It doesn't matter what the reason, it is a bad habit that you should break. Ice chewing is bad for your teeth and can lead to serious problems. If you are not careful, you may end up paying a lot of money for your parents or the dentist.
Chewing ice can cause enamel cracks, which can increase your sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks.
You might get a cavity in a tooth if you chew ice or break a tooth. Acids produced by bacteria can easily penetrate the dentin layer of the tooth and cause tooth decay.
You are more likely to get tooth decay if you have already had fillings, crowns, veneers or braces.
The severity of the problem will determine the extent of the repairs required.
How do you stop?
You have many options to get rid of this habit.
You can melt ice cubes in the mouth. Instead of crushing ice cubes, you can hold them in your mouth and let them melt. You'll feel a longer lasting cool sensation and refreshing feeling. It won't harm your gums or teeth. It's possible to stop eating ice. It doesn't have to be in your glass. You can avoid damage to your teeth and bacteria from lingering in icemakers. You might consider soft alternatives. Replacing regular cubes by softer ice such as shaved, could help. Avoid flavored soft drinks that are high in sugar. You can eat raw carrots, sliced apples, and other fresh fruits and vegetables to eat healthier. These foods satisfy your craving for crunch while also stimulating saliva flow, which protects your teeth. This fibrous material can also keep your teeth clean.
Although the cause of pagophagia, or chewing or crunching ice, is not always clear.
If none of these options help someone to stop eating ice, it may be necessary to make dietary changes or take an iron supplement. You might need to see a doctor.
Take care of your mouth
It is crucial to take good care of your teeth, especially if you are over 12 years old. By the time they reach 12 years old, most people have lost all of their baby teeth.
You can have permanent pearly whites for the rest your life if you brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste.
If you are an ice-chewer, I suggest these alternatives to try.
Matthew Cooke, Associate Professor of Pediatric Dentistry & Anesthesiology at University of Pittsburgh Health Sciences.
This article was republished by The Conversation under Creative Commons. You can read the original article.
