Chewing ice might feel refreshing in warm weather, but it can damage your teeth. While occasionally biting an ice cube is unlikely to result in significant harm, making it a habit can lead to significant dental problems over time.

Many people chew ice because it feels refreshing, but frequent cravings might indicate a deeper cause. In some cases, craving ice may be linked to dehydration, as letting ice melt in the mouth can help alleviate the sensation of a dry mouth. Most notably, a strong and constant urge to chew ice is sometimes associated with iron deficiency anemia or other underlying health issues.

From a dental perspective, chewing ice can be risky. Ice is extremely hard, and regularly biting down on it can damage the enamel, which is the tough outer layer of the teeth. This habit can cause tiny cracks, chips, or even fractures. Once the enamel is damaged, it exposes the dentin underneath, which can make teeth sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods. 

Even more concerning, chewing ice can crack or loosen fillings, crowns, or other dental work, often requiring additional treatments. Furthermore, chewing ice can exert excessive force on the jaw’s muscles and joints and has been linked to signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). 

More specifically, research shows that frequently crushing ice is associated with muscle sensitivity and pain in the temporomandibular joint region. Over time, this habit may harm the muscles used for chewing and negatively affect jaw function.

While it might be satisfying in the short term, regularly chewing ice can have long-term consequences. Weakened enamel, chipped teeth, damaged dental work, jaw strain, and increased sensitivity are potential outcomes. 

If quitting the habit is difficult, especially if you crave ice daily, it might signal an iron deficiency or another medical issue worth addressing. Meanwhile, replacing ice with less harmful options, such as cold water or softer alternatives, can help protect your smile.

Aikaterini Papathanasiou is professor and chair of the Comprehensive Care Department, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine.