8 East Devon Ave., Elk Grove Village, IL 60007

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Is Chewing Ice Bad For Your Teeth and Health?

Published by Brian Homann DDS

According to the American Dental Association (ADA) chewing ice is bad for your teeth for a few reasons. Chewing ice can chip or break teeth, damage enamel, or even damage oral apparatuses like braces, bridges, crowns, and so on.

Any kind of damage to teeth puts your overall dental health at risk and may lead to the development of cavities, tooth sensitivity, or nerve pain.

Why Do People Chew Ice?

While there are no actual side effects of eating ice cubes, chewing ice may be indicative of an underlying problem called pagophagia. According to the Mayo Clinic, pagophagia is the craving to chew ice, which can be caused by an iron deficiency, though not necessarily linked to anemia. Pagophagia, a type of pica, may point to a compulsive or depressive disorder, as well.

It is important to note this is not the same thing as chewing leftover ice in the bottom of a fast food soda, but rather a distinct craving or persistent need to chew ice. If pagophagia is suspected, we highly recommend consulting with your physician or dentist.

Healthy Alternatives to Protect Your Oral Health

If you discover that you have an occasional craving for ice, then you should try an ice alternative like apple slices, carrot sticks, or cucumbers. Pickles and popsicles can help satisfy a cold crunch craving, as well.

Seeking these alternatives can prevent you from wearing down your teeth even faster, which could lead to chipped teeth, cracks, and expensive dental care treatments.

Schedule With A Dentist Close To Wood Dale, Illinois

If your teeth have been chipped, cracked or worn down due to a habit of eating ice, then you need to see a dentist for a follow-up. Schedule at the practice of Brian Homann DDS today for a routine exam or restorative dental treatment.

For more information on chewing ice or pagophagia, please feel free to contact our office for a consultation.

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Most caring dental staff I’ve ever encountered. Every experience has been extremely professional, from just calling to ask a question to cleanings for my whole family and beyond.

Dr. Homann goes out of his way to make sure you understand each step of the process and are comfortable the whole way. Each member of their team genuinely cares about their patients, and knowing I will have the best care every time I walk in the door makes going to the dentist a whole lot easier. Thank you to all the kind and wonderful staff, you make all the difference.

Happy Client
Elk Grove Village, IL

Dr. Homan is the best dentist I've ever been to. Most of my co-workers go to Dr. Homan and that's how I heard about him.

I needed a lot of work on my teeth and I'm so glad I found such a great dentist. He explains everything to you and also is very upfront on all posibiltys that's can happen to the tooth he works on and also explains what you can expect after the dental work. He's also very friendly and everyone at the office makes you feel comfortable. Karen and Sandra in the front office are wonderful as well. They also have wonderful dental hygienist. My insurance is not in network with Dr. Homan but it's well worth the extra money to still go to the best!

Happy Client
Elk Grove Village, IL

Dr. Homann's practice is very clean and up to date. His practice also has televisions to watch when you are getting your teeth cleaned or any other work done which is awesome!

The chairs are very comfortable and the staff is very polite. Dr. Homann is also a very knowledgeable dentist with the ability to make every patient feel calm and comfortable no matter what the situation. He also has done volunteer work for the homeless donating his time and resources to help the less fortunate, if that doesn't let you know what kind of practice this is I don't know what will. I will definitely be coming back here again!

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Elk Grove Village, IL
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