If you love chewing gum, you aren’t alone. For thousands of years people have been chewing gum, but back then it was made from the sap of trees, and now its made of special synthetic materials. Gum isn’t just fun to chew, but it can even help your oral health.
As you chew gum it increases the saliva in your mouth. Saliva helps wash away any acids that build up because of bacteria. If this acid isn’t removed in time it will start to cause tooth decay. Saliva even carries calcium and phosphate that helps strengthen your teeth. The more saliva flowing in your mouth, the more your teeth will be protected.
Studies have shown that if you chew sugarless gum for 20 minutes after a meal, you can help prevent cavities. But it’s important to choose gum that has the American Dental Association (ADA) seal. This kind of gum has been proven to help your teeth whether it’s through reducing plaque build-up or helping to strengthen tooth enamel.
If you chew gum that isn’t sugarless, you still increase your saliva flow, but sugar coats your teeth, so you are worsening your teeth’s health, rather than helping. And remember that sugarless gum will never replace brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily. It’s important to only chew gum as just one small part of your dental routine.
To learn more about how to prevent cavities, contact the Lakeway Center for Cosmetic and Family Dentistry today and set-up your appointment.