Thinking of ways to prevent cavities often involves common dental hygiene activities, like brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. But what if you could improve oral health on the go and enjoy a treat simultaneously? Studies suggest that chewing sugarless gum might be the answer! Keep reading to discover the potential benefits of chewing gum for your smile as well as the potential risks.
Can Chewing Gum Fight Cavities?
Chewing sugarless gum isn’t just an old wives’ tale; strong evidence suggests it can effectively prevent tooth decay. In a two-year European study involving children from third to fifth grade, those who chewed sugarless gum, along with practicing good oral hygiene and using fluoride toothpaste, experienced 41.7% fewer cavities than those who didn’t.
How Can Chewing Gum Improve My Oral Health?
Chewing gum is not only effective in picking up food particles; it goes beyond that. It stimulates saliva production, which offers various oral health benefits. Saliva helps clean the mouth by breaking down and carrying away food particles.
It also stabilizes the mouth’s pH, neutralizing acids that lead to tooth decay. Moreover, saliva plays a crucial role in remineralizing the enamel, thus enhancing overall tooth strength.
Risks of Chewing Gum
While chewing gum can have benefits, it’s essential to be aware of associated risks. The advantages mentioned earlier are specific to sugarless gum. Chewing gum containing sugar can exacerbate tooth decay rather than improve it.
Chewing excessive gum, especially multiple pieces at once, can lead to considerable jaw pain. However, the European study mentioned earlier indicated that chewing up to three pieces a day was manageable and sustainable.
Incorporating sugarless gum into your dental routine can significantly benefit your oral health. So, next time you’re at the grocery store, consider picking some up—it might just help prevent future cavities, toothaches, and other oral health issues for a healthy, pain-free beam!
About Our Practice
Meadowbrook Dental Care, led by Dr. Alvin Babu, Dr. Judson Wells, and Dr. Miguel A. Casañas Jr, emphasizes kindness and compassion in patient care. They provide a comfortable experience while offering a wide range of restorative, cosmetic, and preventive services. Additionally, they can help you achieve a smile you’ll love and learn how to better care for it at home. Contact Meadowbrook Dental Care’s office at (516) 284-1234 or visit their website for more information on their services or to set up an appointment.