Crushing the Ice-Chewing Habit

It's a habit many people have and not only can it be annoying to the people around you, it can be detrimental to your dental health. Chewing ice is so common that it even has its own name, pagophagia. We're not talking about a slushy or shaved ice (although those artificially sugary treats should be avoided too!) but more like the hunks of ice rattling around in the bottom of your glass.

Ice chewing can be a sign of emotional problems like stress or obsessive-compulsive disorder, but it can also be a marker for iron deficiency anemia and other physical problems. Then again, some people just like to have something to chew on. For whatever reason you find yourself chewing on it, it's a habit you need to break.

Chewing on ice can cause:

  • Chipped and cracked teeth
  • Damaged enamel
  • Sore jaw muscles
  • Damage to dental work such as crowns, fillings, or other appliances

If chewing on ice is becoming a problem in your life, don’t hesitate to speak with the doctor about it. But if you find yourself still wanting to chew on something, here are a few alternatives to ice:

  • Baby carrots
  • Celery sticks
  • Sugar-free (xylitol) gum

We know you need to chill sometimes, but chomping down your entire glass of ice is not the way to do it. If you have any other questions on the topic, feel free to talk with a member of our Morristown, New Jersey team. It may be beneficial in solving the issue and helping to remediate any damage to your teeth.

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Testimonials From Our Morristown, NJ Area Patients

What Our Clients Say About Us

  • "Dear Jay,

    I have been to the dentist here in Raleigh,NC twice since coming here from Morristown, NJ (and the magnificent dinner in Westfield with you, your lovely wife and Ginny Williams) and both times the dentist has said, "Wow! Whoever did your dental work was a real professional. You need nothing done except a routine cleaning."

    Jane and I miss you. And your exquisite professionalism. And, of course, we miss much more your friendship."
    Roland P. Perdue
  • "I recently switched to Dr. Schuster and am so happy I did. He is an amazing Dentist and the nicest person in the world. The work he has done for me has be nothing but amazing.

    Thanks much!!!!"
    Irene Scanlon
  • "Dear Dr. Schuster,

    Jay, really nice crown. Now THAT’s the way dentistry should be done:)

    Thank you for allowing me to participate in the care of your patient. I will of course keep you apprised of any changes if they occur. If I may be of any additional assistance regarding this or any other patient, please feel free to call.

    With best personal regards,"
    Mitchell H. Davich, DMD, FACD, FICD