We hear about so many taboos in our daily living — that doing this or doing that is bad for you. It’s fun to hear that something enjoyable is actually good for you. Chewing sugarless gum can actually help fight tooth decay and be good for your gums.
You probably didn’t realize it, but gum chewing in different forms is not new, and in fact, it goes back centuries.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA):
Greeks chewed sap from the mastic tree
Mayans chewed sap of the sapodilla tree
Native Americans in New England chewed sap from spruce trees
According to a clinical study, chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes after eating can help prevent tooth decay. Why? When you chum gum, saliva in your mouth increases, and the saliva neutralizes acid that gets produced during eating. It also helps to wash the acid away. Acid tends to break down tooth enamel as time goes along. Once the enamel breaks down, you’re more prone to getting cavities. Increased saliva also contains more calcium and phosphate, which can help strengthen tooth enamel. In fact, some gums even contain agents that help mineralize your teeth.
Look for an ADA seal of approval on gum. When you see the seal, it means scientific proof exists that the gum either:
Reduces plaque acids
Promotes remineralization of tooth enamel
Reduces gingivitis
During your dental visits at Hutto Hippo Family Dental, Dr. Baker is glad to answer any questions you have about dental care and can also offer helpful suggestions. Please call us at (512)806-7740.
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