Chewing Gum and Oral Health

All of us have seen commercials where a person takes two pellets or a stick of a tasty chewing gum after finishing a good meal. Most of the time, these short video commercials mention that chewing gum after a meal is good for your teeth and that it can benefit your oral health. 

This is true, and in this article, we will look at the reasons why chewing gum helps your teeth. 

Chewing Sugarless Gum Cleans Your Teeth

One of the main benefits of chewing sugarless gum is that it helps clean your teeth. Dental experts at the Oral Health Foundation state that chewing sugar free gum removes tiny food particles that are stuck to your teeth, therefore, reducing the possibility of developing tooth cavities. 

How Often Should I Chew Gum?

Experts recommend chewing gum after every meal, and the sooner after the meal the better. The process of chewing produces additional saliva. This helps clear away any remaining food and, in combination with sugarless chewing gum, reduces acid levels in your mouth that can cause tooth decay (by stabilising pH levels). This helps to improve the strength of your teeth.

However, chewing sugarless gum should not be a substitute for maintaining your proper daily oral health routine – be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day and use dental floss.

What Chewing Gum Should I Choose?

Any sugarless chewing gum should do the trick, but we recommend using chewing gum with Xylitol – a natural sweetener that can be found in different types of fruit, berries and even mushrooms. It also prevents plaque bacteria accumulating on the teeth and in some cases can improve teeth enamel.

Additionally, it is a good idea to see if the chewing gum contains casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP), commonly known as Recaldent. Experts say that this substance can enhance the strength of your teeth as well as reduce the risk of tooth decay.  

Chewing Gum Can Improve Oral Health

Chewing sugarless gum certainly has its oral health benefits. It reduces the risk of tooth decay and cavities and prevents plaque bacteria build-up. It also improves the strength of your teeth, reduces acid levels in your mouth and gives you nice and fresh breath.