Chew on this for a Healthier Mouth!

One simple action can produce multiple great benefits and that is, chewing gum. Chewing gum has been around since ancient times and still shown to help reduce oral bacteria today. It’s important to choose the correct type of gum or lozenge to improve your oral health. This article will review some fun, chewy and helpful information!

History of Chewing Gum

Chewing gum has been around since ancient times, but it wasn’t always as it is today. It’s been recorded that in Scandinavia chewed birch bark pitch while they worked.

Types of Chewing Gum

Today, it’s important to read nutrition labels. Yes, even on chewing gum as it can be filled with sugar. This could be detrimental to ones teeth. Sucrose and other fermentable carbohydrates are what bacteria in mouth feed off of which in turn causes plaque and acid. The plaque and acid causes demineralization of enamel and cavities.

While shopping, look for sugar-free gum. Chewing sugar-free gum can reduce the risk of cavities. “How?”, you might ask. Chewing gum stimulates saliva flow and activates taste buds. Increasing the saliva helps neutralize the acids in the mouth.

Benefits of Chewing Gum

Sugar-free gums are considered for the ADA Seal of Acceptance. Additionally, studies have shown that those who chew a piece of sugarless gum 20 minutes after eating, tremendously reduce the acidity levels in their mouths.

If you or someone you know, is at high risk for decay, experience acid reflux, dry mouth, or bad breath, consider trying a chewing gum or lozenge with xylitol. Xylitol has the punching power to the actual bacteria that causes decay. If you have TMJD (jaw pain/popping), dental professionals would recommend a lozenge versus chewing gum.

Conclusion

It is important to note, chewing gum is not a substitute for twice daily brushing and flossing. It should be used in addition to your brushing and flossing routine.

In conclusion, saliva is IMPORTANT. Saliva hides imperfections on the teeth, fights germs, fights cavities and gum disease, prevents bad breath, and helps you chew, taste, and swallow. Therefore, go grab your favorite sugar-free, xylitol gum and get to chewing!

Resources:

https://www.science.org/content/article/8000-year-old-gum-holds-surprises-about-ancient-toolmakers