Dentist in Chalfont

Many people chew gum on a regular basis, and some even chew it every day. But is chewing gum really good for you? While the jury is still out on whether or not it’s bad for you, science has proven that it can have some definite benefits. Read on to find out how chewing gum can be beneficial for your oral health.

Increase Saliva Production

One benefit of chewing gum is that it helps increase saliva production in the mouth. According to Colgate, saliva helps to flush away food particles and plaque, which can help prevent tooth decay, cavities and other dental problems. In addition, saliva also contains certain enzymes that can help break down plaque buildup and remove bacteria from your teeth.

Tooth Decay Prevention

Chewing gum also helps to reduce the amount of plaque buildup on your teeth, which can in turn help prevent tooth decay. This is because chewing gum increases saliva production and helps to flush away food particles and bacteria that can cause plaque buildup. In addition, some gums contain xylitol, a sugar-free sweetener that helps kill the bacteria that cause plaque and cavities.

Fresh Breath

Chewing gum can also help keep your breath smelling fresh. This is because it helps to neutralize bad odors that may be caused by bacteria in the mouth, as well as food particles trapped between teeth. In addition, certain gums contain natural oils, such as peppermint or spearmint, which can help improve breath naturally.

Teeth Whitening

There are many whitening products on the market, and whitening chewing gum is one of them. Whitening gums contain abrasive particles that can help to remove surface stains from teeth. While it won’t produce the same results as professional teeth whitening treatments, chewing these types of gums on a regular basis may help to improve the overall appearance of your teeth.

Possible Consequences of Chewing Gum

Although there are many benefits to chewing gum, it’s important to remember that too much of a good thing can be bad. Excessive gum chewing can cause jaw problems, headaches and TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder). If you are already dealing with jaw pain, bruxism (teeth grinding) or TMJ, it’s best to avoid gum chewing entirely. It’s also possible for gum to become stuck in the teeth or throat if swallowed, so make sure to spit out your gum after you’re done chewing it.

How to Choose a Gum

The best type of gum to choose is one that is sugar-free and contains natural ingredients such as xylitol, peppermint or spearmint. These gums are the safest option for your teeth, as they won’t decay them or increase your risk of cavities.

Contact Our Dentist in Chalfont Today

If you’re looking for a way to improve your oral health, consider trying chewing gum. However, it’s important to remember that while it can be beneficial in some ways, it should never replace regular brushing and flossing. For more information on the benefits of chewing gum or to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Chalfont, contact Highpoint Dental Medicine today.