By

CBS News Staff /

CBS News/ February 20, 2012, 1:12 PM

7 troublesome ways teens destroy their teeth

Chewing ice

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It may sound strange, but teens sometimes crunch on ice to stave off hunger if they're on a diet or skip a meal due to a busy schedule. Some may also chew ice as a nervous habit.

The truth is that chewing ice, as harmless as it may seem, can lead to microfractures in teeth. These microfractures, which can be seen under an intense light, act as canals for bacteria to enter and linger, causing cavities. They also increase the chances of these teeth fracturing.