Family Dentist Dr. Nugent talks about chewing gum:
Studies have shown that using sugar-free chewing gum after meals and snacks, especially when toothbrushing at those times is impractical, helps reduce the acid level and its potential detrimental effect on the enamel. Its mechanism of action is the stimulation of 10 times the normal rate of salivary flow due to both the act of chewing and the flavor of the artificial sweeteners [sorbitol or xylitol]. The saliva washes away food particles and acid produced by bacteria in the plaque and neutralizes the acid because of increased concentration of bicarbonates in saliva. Chewing sugar-free gum is not intended to replace toothbrushing and flossing. Sugar-free gum is also recommended for people with xerostomia [dry mouth] to stimulate increased salivary flow, along with drinking greater amounts of water [6-8 glasses a day]. However, those experiencing TMJ [temporomadibular syndrome] symptoms should refrain from chewing any gum.
Make sure your chewing gum is SUAGR FREE!!!!!!
Five Reason to Chew Gum:
1. Combating Malodorous Breath
We’ve all had episodes of bad odor. Strong-smelling foods such as garlic, onions, and spices can leave an unpleasant flavor and odor in the nose. However, bad breath can also be a sign of more severe oral health issues, such as gum disease or dry mouth. While flavored gums cannot cure these conditions, they can effectively conceal bad breath. When you next require bad breath relief, chew a piece of your preferred sugar-free, minty gum.
2. Preventing Dental Caries
A study published in the Journal of Oral Science found that participants who chewed gum containing the sugar-free sweetener xylitol had fewer oral microorganisms in their mouths shortly after chewing. The American Dental Association (ADA) also states that chewing sugar-free gum immediately after eating can reduce the risk of dental decay.
Remember that gum is not a replacement for routine tooth brushing and interdental cleaning with floss, water flossers, and other products. Plaque, gingivitis, tartar, cavities, and halitosis can be avoided with proper oral hygiene. Chewing sugar-free gum after dinner can assist in the removal of food and bacteria from teeth until the next time you brush.
3. Boosting Salivary Flow
Additionally, chewing gum can alleviate the discomfort associated with parched mouth. The pharynx benefits greatly from saliva, and chewing gum helps stimulate saliva production. When a person has a dry mouth, chewing, swallowing, and speaking may become difficult. When you chew, the muscles in your mandible exert pressure on your salivary glands, causing salivation. By routinely chewing gum, you can increase saliva and alleviate the symptoms of dry mouth.
4. Bleaching Teeth
You may be wondering: Does gum whiten teeth? Coffee consumption and cigarette smoking are two behaviors that can discolor the surface of teeth. Thankfully, whitening products, such as toothpaste, at-home whitening kits, and even gum, can help eradicate some surface stains.
Today, numerous whitening chewing gums are available in stores. These products are consumed after meals to aid in the removal of potential stain-causing food particles by stimulating salivation. The whitening ingredients then coat the teeth to prevent future discoloration. Additionally, teeth whitening treatments have been known to increase tooth sensitivity, and consuming gum may also alleviate this side effect!
5. Stress reduction
According to research, chewing gum can also alleviate daily tension. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical and Translational Research, participants who routinely chewed gum over a longer period of time reported experiencing less stress than those who did not chew gum.
Not only is chewing sugar-free gum enjoyable, but it also provides significant oral benefits, such as fighting bad odor and tooth decay. Additionally, flavor alternatives are limitless. Remember that gum should not supplant your oral hygiene routine — continue to brush and floss your teeth — but it can be a healthy treat after a meal.
For awesome dental care come visit our dental office in Pasadena, Texas. We are located at 3421 Burke Rd Ste A, Pasadena Texas 77504. Discover how a caring dental office can truly make you feel like family. For your new patient appointment, call us at 713-941-8261. Get the best in dental care for you and your family.