Many people would love to know a simple way to improve their oral health. Brushing your teeth morning and night and flossing once daily are a given. However, did you know that chewing gum can aid your oral health? That’s right! If the gum is sugar-free, it can help prevent cavities.
Studies show that chewing sugar-free gum for at least 20 minutes after meals can lessen the risk of tooth decay. This may come as a surprise to you. Chewing gum increases the flow of saliva in the mouth, which in turn helps to clear out food particles and plaque. The increase of saliva also helps neutralize cavity-causing acids, thus helping prevent tooth enamel erosion. In addition, the extra saliva strengthens the tooth enamel because it contains nutrients like fluoride, calcium, and phosphates.
It is the act of chewing that increases the flow of saliva in your mouth. In order to reap the benefits of chewing gum, make sure to stick with the sugarless variety. Chewing gum that contains sugar will also increase the saliva flow in your mouth, but the sugar present counteracts the benefits.
Dr. Derek Lichter and our team urge you not to try to replace brushing and flossing your teeth with chewing gum. Instead, chewing gum can be an extra protection for your teeth.
Our dentist and team in Chula Vista, California, invite you to contact our office today at 619-591-8945 to learn more and to schedule your next visit.
