Dental Hygiene Month - Chew!

Can Chewing Gum Really Help Prevent Cavities?

Chewing gum can be fun, but did you know that it can also help you with your oral care? Studies have shown that chewing sugarless gum for twenty minutes after eating can reduce the risk of tooth decay. 

How Does It Work? 

Bacteria form on your teeth, and the longer they are there the more likely they are to secrete an acid. This acid is what causes cavities and tooth decay. Brushing and flossing is one way to rid these bacteria from your mouth, but there is another way too — saliva. 

Saliva is capable of washing away food remnants and other debris that are in your mouth, thereby neutralizing acids to help prevent erosion of tooth enamel and getting rid of bacteria that cause tooth decay. Your saliva also contains nutrients such as calcium, fluoride and phosphates; these nutrients work together to strengthen tooth enamel. 

The best way to increase the flow of saliva in your mouth is by chewing, which is where the gum comes in. With each bite your mouth will produce more saliva, and the more saliva there is the more debris and bacteria that will get pushed out of your mouth. 

Look For the ADA Seal 

Don't reach for your nearest packet of bubble gum thinking it will keep cavities at bay. You want to make sure the gum you pick is sugar free. Sugar is one of the leading causes of tooth decay, so chewing sugary gum would be counterproductive.

The easiest way to pick a gum that's not going to end up causing you more problems than it solves is to look for the American Dental Association seal on the package. The ADA tests gum to make sure that it is good for gums and prevents plaque acids from building up. The organization only approves gums that contain Xylitol, a natural sweetener, rather than sugar.

Gums that don't have the ADA seal aren't as effective. Be sure to ask your family dentist if you are unsure about a gum's quality. Most dentists have a few brands of their own that they know work well for oral hygiene.

Keep Brushing

Remember that gum isn't a substitute for brushing and flossing. There are some bacteria that gum can't take out, especially when it settles in between the teeth. It is important to continue brushing twice per day with fluoride toothpaste and to use floss and mouthwash for those hard to reach areas. Use gum along with your daily routine to keep your mouth clean and acid free.

If you have any questions about your hygiene then consult your dentist. It's good to take an active role in your oral hygiene to prevent long term problems.