Every time you go to the checkout when buying your groceries, are you drawn to the assortment of different types and flavors of chewing gum? This may not be such a bad thing after all. Even though this treat tastes sugary and sweet, if you get the right kind, it can have a variety of different benefits for your smile, including helping you to ward off cavities. Read on to learn more about how chewing gum can positively affect your smile.
How Does Chewing Gum Benefit Your Teeth?
Chewing Gum Cleans Your Smile
When you chew on sugar-free gum, you are helping to remove food particles that are stuck in your teeth. When you remove this lingering debris, you are also reducing your risk of tooth decay in the near future. Of course, chewing gum is not an alternative for brushing or flossing; it is a helpful treat to have during the day to keep the surfaces on your teeth clean.
Xylitol Is Not Bad for Your Teeth
Sugar-free gums are just as sweet as the ones that are full of sugar, but how? This is because it uses an artificial sweetener known as xylitol. This ingredient is not sufficient for fueling the growth of bacteria, so you will be able to get that sweet flavor without needing to worry about developing cavities.
Gum Increases Your Saliva Flow
Having a healthy flow of saliva is important because it neutralizes harmful acids in the mouth that soften the enamel and can lead to tooth decay. Saliva also washes away cavity-causing bacteria and food particles that are lingering in the mouth. By preventing dry mouth, you can avoid bad breath, excessive bacterial growth, and tooth decay.
Some Chewing Gums Strengthen Tooth Enamel
There is an ingredient that some gum manufacturers are beginning to add to their products. It is known as phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP). The more common name for it is Recaldent. This ingredient is said to remineralize and harden your tooth enamel to make it stronger and prevent tooth decay.
Should You Be Chewing Gum Often?
For the average person, chewing sugarless gum is a great preventative measure that you can take in addition to regular brushing and flossing. However, if you experience jaw pain or temporomandibular disorder symptoms (TMD/TMJ), chewing gum is not recommended because it can worsen your condition.
Next time you’re wanting something sugary, reach for a piece of gum instead. Not only will it satisfy your sweet tooth, but it will also benefit your smile.
About the Author
Dr. Christine DiBlasi Laster graduated with honors from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill School of Dentistry. She is a member of the American Dental Association, North Carolina Dental Society, American Association of Women Dentists, and several others. For more information on keeping your smile healthy or to schedule an appointment of her office in Raleigh, visit her website or call (919) 787-0355.