Do you chew gum? Do you wonder the oral effects gum has on your mouth and teeth? Have you ever heard that chewing gum can be good for your teeth? We are here to tell you the ins and outs of gum chewing. But, by no means will you hear us say, gum chewing can replace regular brushing and flossing.
According to the ADA, the physical act of chewing increases the flow of saliva in your mouth. If you chew after eating, the increased salivary flow can help neutralize and wash away the acids that are produced when food is broken down by the bacteria in plaque on your teeth. Over time, acid can break down tooth enamel, creating the conditions for decay. Increased saliva flow also carries with it more calcium and phosphate to help strengthen tooth enamel. Clinical studies have shown that chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes following meals can help prevent tooth decay.
Look for gum that might contain active agents that could enhance the gum’s ability to remineralize teeth and reduce decay, or enable gum to help reduce plaque and gingivitis. To date, the only gum with the ADA Seal are sugarless. So if you are going to chew gum, look for the ADA seal.
Again, remember, nothing replaces regular brushing and flossing…every day!