The discussion has been around for a long time, or as long as dental cleanliness. Gum chewers have been around for centuries, even though the earliest gums were not as modern as those we use today. They have since evolved from simple sap or gum to the liquid substance we are familiar with today. Each brand’s recipe is different, but all gums contain the same mix of resins, gum softeners, and fillers. They also vary dramatically with the addition of flavours and sweeteners. Although the ingredients are all-natural, are they safe to chew? Because taking care of your teeth is vital, you must learn good dental hygiene routines. However, should chewing gum be among them?
We will have to look at how chewing gum dental impact your mouth and body in general.
Chewing gum has been a subject of debate when it comes to dental health. On one hand, chewing gum can help to increase saliva flow, which can help to neutralize the acid in the mouth and reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. On the other hand, some types of chewing gum contain sugar, which can be harmful to teeth if consumed in excess. Additionally, some people develop a condition known as a “gummy smile” as a result of chewing gum excessively, which is characterized by an excessive display of gum tissue when smiling. A gummy smile can be caused by overactive muscles, which push the gum tissue up and cover more of the teeth, or by genetics. In some cases, it can be corrected with orthodontic treatment or gum contouring surgery.
Effects of chewing gum on your teeth
Chewing gum has many benefits, such as reducing stress and boosting memory. Many believe that it is an aid in losing weight or an aid in quitting smoking. However, for dental health and oral hygiene, chewing gum can be an unreliable source.
Chewing gum is both beneficial and harmful to your teeth. Everything is dependent on the type of gum that is bitten. Regular sugary gum may cause harm to your teeth. The sugar used as a sweetener can increase the number of bacteria you have within your mouth, which may, in turn, cause damage to the teeth. However, sugar-free gum can improve your oral health and freshen your breath.
Increase or decrease the risk of cavities
Depending on the type of gum you chew, chewing it can either increase or decrease your risk of developing cavities. Gum that is sugar-based typically includes sucrose, which is a preferred food source for bacteria that cause decay. As a result, chewing sugary gum regularly may increase the risk of tooth decay.
In contrast, sugar-free gum utilizes xylitol to stop decay-causing bacteria from spreading throughout your mouth. It’s not just a way to reduce the chance of tooth decay, but it can also help keep your breath fresh.
Sugar-free gum benefits
While gum can provide fresh breath, sugar-free gum can reduce the risk of cavities. The American dental association has reported that research shows that you can stop tooth decay simply by chewing sugar-free gum for 20 minutes following eating. The gum stimulates saliva that is produced in your mouth. This helps neutralize acid and helps strengthen enamel. The same saliva production also reduces the sensitivity of your teeth.
But not every sugar-free gum is created to be the same. Be aware that sweetened with xylitol gums provide more anti-decay benefits than those made with sorbitol. With sorbitol, some waste products that are acidic are still being produced, and the bacteria that create the cavity digest sorbitol but can’t do when they are sweetened with xylitol. Although most gums are sweetened with sorbitol mostly because it’s less expensive, if you’re looking for sugar-free gum, you should choose one made of xylitol.
Decrease tooth sensitivity
When your tooth is sensitive to cold, hot, or sweets, chewing sugar-free gum can reduce sensitivity. Chewing sugar-free gum has been demonstrated to decrease teeth sensitivity for dental patients who recently had bleaching treatments. The theory is that extra saliva from chewing gum can help build up the enamel.
Chewing gum for oral health
To chew or to not chew? That’s the issue. Answers can be summated into a simple. Chewing gum works excellently when it’s sugar-free and sweetened with xylitol. The gum is excellent for cleaning your teeth and stopping tooth decay while improving the health of your mouth. So put down those sugary chewing gums and choose to chew sugar-free gum. Your mouth will thank you.
To get started on good dental health, visit Therapeuoclinic dentist regularly. Contact today to books an appointment.
Conclusion
Chewing sugar-free gum could positively chewing gum dental impact your teeth as it could help prevent cavities by eliminating plaque and harmful bacteria from the surface of your gums and teeth. Keep in mind that chewing gum isn’t an unhealthy habit, to begin with, but it can have some risks and dangers that you should consider.
If you want to refresh your mouth, it’s best to floss and brush your teeth or apply mouthwash instead of chewing gum for cleaning. A glass of water with mint leaves is also a great method to freshen your mouth after eating. Rather than chewing gum cons, particularly if coupled with mouthwash and brushing afterward.
Your teeth are crucial as they are your gateway for your entire body. You must maintain them in good health and be aware of how your consumption can affect the rest of your body.
