Ice Crunching: The Dental Connection!

For some people, there's really nothing like the feeling and sound of ice crunching between their teeth.  However, you better cool off on the ice chewing if you're not prepared to have some level of dental issues resulting from the crunching of ice!

Chips, fracture lines, and cracks are common results from frequent ice chewing and if any of those issues are large enough, you could require a root canal and crown or even a tooth extraction!  Even if frequent ice chewing does not lead to one of these more serious effects, it will still wear down the enamel on your teeth much faster than normal.  Thinner enamel means weaker teeth and less protection, which means a higher risk for the development of cavities!

If you are a chronic ice chewer, it is really in your teeth's best interest for you to break the habit!  Whether it is a nervous habit, out of boredom, or it is something you crave, identifying the root cause can be the first step in ending this damaging dental habit.   You can even try drinking your drinks through a straw to help you resist the urge to crunch on the ice in your drink or simply order drinks without ice altogether.  Just remember that the rush of the crunch is not worth the damage you are doing to your oral health!

At Thomas Family Dentistry, we use many different types of technology to diagnose whether or not you have done any damage to your teeth through ice crunching or other means.  Digital radiographs are our first line of defense and a great tool in helping us see through and between teeth.  We also use a "tooth sleuth" to check for cracked tooth syndrome, which can be a common side effect to ice chewing or clenching.

We have flexible payment options and accept and file your dental insurance to make it easier on your pocket and time!  If you are in need of an appointment, call our office at 918-455-0123!

God Bless,
DRT