Have you ever heard that chewing gum can help your or your child’s smile? This is true in certain cases. But what determines whether gum is helpful or detrimental to your smile? Dr. Calder, Dr. Timothy Durr, Dr. Clarke Short, and our team are happy to guide you in this matter.
Chewing Gum With Sugar
If the chewing gum contains sugar, the sugar can react with the bacteria in the mouth to create cavity-causing acids. Gum with sugar can do a lot of damage to the teeth because it doesn’t dissolve. Because of this, the sugars are in contact with the teeth for a longer period of time than most candy.
Sugarless Chewing Gum
The act of chewing gum is beneficial to your oral health. Chewing prompts saliva production. Saliva washes food particles from around the teeth and gums. Saliva also neutralizes the acids that cause cavities. So, to enjoy the benefits of chewing without the risk of cavities, chew sugarless gum. In addition to prompting saliva flow, sugarless gum can help clear away food particles, strengthen teeth, and reduce acid levels in your mouth.
Xylitol
Sugar-free chewing gum is even more effective at preventing cavities if it contains a sweetener called Xylitol. This naturally occurring sweetener can reduce the amount of cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth.
We encourage you to contact Comfort Dental Excellence at 281.376.4533 today to learn more about chewing gum and to schedule your next visit with our dentists in Spring, Texas.