When it comes to chewing gum, it’s the type of gum you chew that makes a difference in whether it’s helpful or harmful to your teeth. While chewing gum containing sugar may actually increase your chances of developing a cavity, you might think that, like most candy, chewing gum can only do damage to your teeth, but the surprising truth is that there is such a thing as gum that is good for your teeth. They are the sugar-free gums.
Sugar-free gum helps to clean teeth and strengthen teeth
Studies have shown that chewing sugar-free gum stimulates the production of saliva which helps clear away food, strengthen teeth and neutralize the acids released by the bacteria in plaque, which are harmful to teeth.
Saliva can promote strengthening of teeth because it contains calcium ions, and buffering capacity which can alter the pH of mouth, maintaining it at neutral pH.
Xylitol reduces decay-causing bacteria
Xylitol is a naturally occurring sweetener that some studies have shown can reduce the amount of cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth. With xylitol use over a period of time, the types of bacteria in the mouth change and fewer decay-causing bacteria survive on tooth surfaces.
However,
Although chewing sugar-free gum can be beneficial in most instances, there are some cases in which chewing gum is not recommended. For example those wearing dentures and people who have problems with their mouth opening and closing joint in front of the ear.
For most people, chewing sugar-free gum (especially gum sweetened with xylitol) can be a good preventive measure in situations when tooth brushing and flossing aren’t practical, but sugar-free or not, chewing gum should never replace good dental hygiene practices.
With all these options waiting at the checkout candy rack, it is easier than ever to satisfy your sweet tooth and protect it from cavities at the same time. The next time you are in the mood for a sweet treat, why not bite into a piece of sugar free, cavity-fighting, or enamel-strengthening gum that is good for your teeth instead of a sugar-filled candy? Your teeth will thanak you.
Want to know more about your teeth, feel free to visit us at Smileway Dental Clinic Malaysia. Here we provide dental treatment in a comfortable way because we create smiles that matters.
