Gum is a popular item to have in purses, cars, and even the checkout lane at grocery stores. It’s everywhere and you can’t get away from it. Some love chewing gum and others don’t care either way. But the real question is, is chewing gum bad for your teeth or gums?
The act of chewing gum often times starts the salivary gland in the mouth to start making saliva. If you frequently chew gum after eating, this can help the effects of food staining your teeth and the saliva can act as a rinse of your teeth and gums. After you eat and rinsing your teeth is the next best thing to brushing or flossing and can actually prevent tooth decay because it’s reducing the levels of acids in your mouth.
When you are looking to buy a pack of gum next time you are checking out at the grocery store, make sure to get a pack of gum that is sugarless. If you are chewing a pack of gum that has sugar in it, that gum is considered more like candy, which can harm your teeth. Even after you spit out the gum, sugar will stick on your teeth and gums which can start to break down the enamel. Some of the sugarless gums have a seal on them from the American Dental Association which will ensure that the gum is in fact sugarless.
It’s important not to let chewing sugarless gum replace brushing and flossing your teeth – instead, it’s a great alternative. It’s also important to have regular dental checkups to make sure your teeth and gums are healthy. During your dental visit, you can ask your dentist what they types/brands of gum they recommend that are best for your teeth.
At All-Star Dental Clinic, we are teeth and mouth experts, and we are happy to answer any of your dental questions, contact us today. If you would like to schedule your next dental visit, contact one of our offices that is most convenient for you. You can also take a look at all of our dental services as well. Our goal is to make your teeth and gums as healthy as they can be.
