There is a common misconception that chewing gum can be good for your teeth, although there are negative impacts of chewing gum, there are also some positive upsides.
Negative Impacts Of Chewing Gum
Chewing gum has numerous negative side effects but one of the main ones is tooth decay. The sugar in the gum, even in sugar-free gum, can “bathe” your teeth in this substance, which can impact the enamel, color, and condition of your teeth. Tooth decay can be avoided by brushing and flossing after meals and especially after eating candy and chewing gum. Dependent on the amount of gum you chew and the frequency in which you chew, you can develop jaw issues, in particular TMJ, or Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, which is associated with intense jaw pain and discomfort.
If you decide to continue to chew gum, be sure to look for the American Dental Association (ADA) seal on the outer packaging of the gum. This indicates that this particular gum has gone through testing and is approved by the ADA, which is huge for these brands. Some common brands that have been approved by the ADA include: Trident, Ice Breakers, Wrigley’s 5, and Orbit.
What Positive Impacts Can Chewing Gum Have?
Chewing gum has been associated with many negative effects but also has some positive side effects. In fact, research has found more positives than negatives. Chewing sugarless gum has been found to create more saliva in the mouth, which contains calcium and phosphate that can actually strengthen tooth enamel. This can be beneficial to the health of your teeth but it is still recommended that an individual brush their teeth after chewing gum. Chewing gum can also reduce the chance of gingivitis and promotes the production of saliva, which can naturally clean the mouth and get rid of the debris and bacteria’s that develop in the mouth after eating meals.
Can I Chew Gum Instead Of Floss?
No. Chewing gum is not an alternative to flossing but it can help assist in removing debris from the mouth. The American Dental Association recommends flossing at least once a day, brushing twice a day, drinking plenty of water, and scheduling regular check-ups to ensure a healthy smile.
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If you’re looking for more information on maintaining the health of your Delaware smile or looking into scheduling your regular dental check-up, feel free to contact one of our offices today. Our offices are conveniently located in Brandywine, Hockessin, Middletown, Wilmington, Millsboro, and Ocean View, DE. Contact your local office today!