Chewing gum has been a popular pastime for many years. It is often used to freshen breath, relieve stress, and even improve concentration. However, there has been much debate about whether chewing gum is good or bad for your teeth. Some people believe that it can help to clean teeth and prevent decay, while others argue that it can damage tooth enamel and cause other oral health problems.
Many types of chewing gum contain sugar, which can lead to tooth decay if left on the teeth for too long. However, there are also sugar-free options available that use artificial sweeteners instead. These types of gum are less likely to cause dental problems and may even help to reduce the amount of plaque on teeth. Additionally, chewing gum stimulates the production of saliva, which can neutralise acids in the mouth and prevent tooth decay.
Contents
The Basics of Chewing Gum
Chewing gum is a popular pastime enjoyed by millions of people across the world. It is a type of confectionery that is designed to be chewed without being swallowed. Chewing gum is made from a combination of ingredients, including gum base, sweeteners, flavourings, and softeners.
The act of chewing gum stimulates the production of saliva, which helps to neutralise acid in the mouth and wash away food particles. This can help to prevent tooth decay and gum disease, as well as freshen breath.
There are two main types of chewing gum: sugar-free and sugar-containing. Sugar-free gum is often recommended by dentists as it is less likely to cause tooth decay. Sugar-containing gum, on the other hand, can increase the risk of cavities if not consumed in moderation.
It is important to note that chewing gum should not be used as a replacement for good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing. However, when used in conjunction with these practices, chewing gum can be a useful tool in maintaining good oral health.
Impact on Oral Health
Stimulation of Saliva Production
Chewing gum has been known to stimulate saliva production in the mouth. Saliva is essential for maintaining good oral health as it helps to neutralise acids that can cause tooth decay. The act of chewing gum also increases blood flow to the mouth, which can help to keep the gums healthy.
Removal of Food Particles
Chewing gum can also help to remove food particles from the teeth. When food particles are left in the mouth, they can break down and release acid that can cause tooth decay. Chewing gum can help to remove these particles, reducing the risk of tooth decay.
It is important to note that not all chewing gum is good for oral health. Gum that contains sugar can actually increase the risk of tooth decay. It is recommended to choose sugar-free gum that contains xylitol, a natural sweetener that has been shown to reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Chewing gum can have a positive impact on oral health when used appropriately. By stimulating saliva production and removing food particles, it can help to maintain good oral hygiene.
Potential Risks
Tooth Damage
While chewing gum can have benefits for dental health, there are also potential risks to consider. One of the main concerns is tooth damage. Chewing gum can be abrasive and if it contains sugar, it can increase the risk of tooth decay. Additionally, if the gum is chewed vigorously or for extended periods of time, it can cause damage to tooth enamel and even lead to tooth fractures.
To minimise the risk of tooth damage, it is recommended to choose sugar-free gum and to avoid chewing it for extended periods of time. It is also important to avoid chewing gum if you have any existing dental problems, such as loose or broken teeth.
Jaw Problems
Another potential risk of chewing gum is jaw problems. Chewing gum requires the use of the jaw muscles, and if done excessively, it can cause strain and lead to problems such as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). This can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, as well as difficulty opening and closing the mouth.
To minimise the risk of jaw problems, it is recommended to limit the amount of gum chewed and to take breaks from chewing throughout the day. It is also important to avoid chewing gum if you have any existing jaw problems or pain.
Overall, while chewing gum can have benefits for dental health, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and to take steps to minimise them. Choosing sugar-free gum, limiting the amount chewed, and avoiding chewing if you have any existing dental or jaw problems can help to reduce the risk of tooth damage and jaw problems.
Scientific Studies and Research
Scientific studies and research have been conducted to determine whether chewing gum is good for teeth. The following paragraphs summarise some of the findings.
Reducing Plaque
According to a study published in the Journal of Dental Research, chewing sugar-free gum for 20 minutes after a meal can help reduce plaque by up to 70%. The act of chewing gum increases the production of saliva, which helps to wash away food particles and neutralise acids in the mouth.
Strengthening Enamel
Another study found that chewing sugar-free gum that contains xylitol can help strengthen enamel. Xylitol is a natural sweetener that has been shown to reduce the amount of harmful bacteria in the mouth. By reducing the amount of harmful bacteria, xylitol can help prevent tooth decay and strengthen enamel.
Reducing Sensitivity
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Dentistry found that chewing gum that contains arginine can help reduce tooth sensitivity. Arginine is an amino acid that has been shown to stimulate the production of saliva, which can help to neutralise acids in the mouth and reduce sensitivity.
Caveats
While these studies suggest that chewing gum can be beneficial for oral health, it is important to note that not all chewing gum is created equal. Gum that contains sugar can actually increase the risk of tooth decay, while excessive chewing of any gum can lead to jaw pain or headaches. Additionally, chewing gum should never be used as a substitute for brushing and flossing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, chewing gum can have both positive and negative effects on oral health. While chewing sugar-free gum for 20 minutes after a meal can help stimulate saliva production and neutralize acid in the mouth, chewing gum with sugar can increase the risk of tooth decay.
It is important to note that chewing gum should not be seen as a substitute for proper oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing. These practices are essential for maintaining good oral health.
Overall, it is recommended to choose sugar-free gum with the British Dental Association (BDA) logo on the packaging. This indicates that the gum has been approved by dental professionals and is less likely to cause harm to teeth.
By making informed choices about the type of gum they chew and maintaining good oral hygiene practices, individuals can help promote their oral health and prevent tooth decay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does chewing gum help clean teeth?
Yes, chewing sugar-free gum can help clean teeth by increasing saliva production in the mouth. Saliva helps to neutralise acids produced by bacteria in dental plaque, which can cause tooth decay. Chewing gum also helps to dislodge food particles stuck between teeth.
How often is it recommended to chew gum?
It is recommended to chew gum for 20 minutes after eating to help clean teeth and freshen breath. However, it is important to choose sugar-free gum to avoid the negative effects of sugar on teeth.
Can chewing gum be harmful to your stomach?
Chewing gum is generally considered safe for the stomach, but excessive gum chewing can lead to bloating, gas and abdominal discomfort. It is important to chew gum in moderation and avoid swallowing it.
What is the best sugar-free gum for teeth?
The best sugar-free gum for teeth is one that contains xylitol, a natural sweetener that has been shown to reduce the risk of tooth decay. Xylitol helps to increase saliva flow and neutralise acids in the mouth. Look for gum brands that contain at least 1g of xylitol per serving.
Do dentists recommend chewing gum?
Yes, many dentists recommend chewing sugar-free gum as part of a good oral hygiene routine. Chewing gum can help to clean teeth, freshen breath and reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Is it healthy to chew gum daily?
Chewing gum daily is generally considered safe, as long as it is sugar-free and chewed in moderation. However, excessive gum chewing can lead to jaw pain and headaches. It is important to listen to your body and chew gum in moderation.
