You’ve probably heard it many times before–candy is bad for your teeth. Well, that’s almost always true. But there is one sweet treat that gets our seal of approval, and that’s sugar-free gum! Read on to learn the benefits of chewing sugar-free gum.
1. Stimulates Saliva Production
Chewing sugarless gum encourages your mouth to produce more saliva. Saliva is a natural wash for your mouth, and it is packed with minerals that strengthen enamel and enzymes that fight cavity-causing bacteria. Another plus, chewing sugar-free gum can help those dealing with dry mouth.
2. Protects Enamel
Sugar-free gum has a hand in keeping your mouth clean, both by stimulating saliva and by removing plaque and food particles from your teeth. As you chew, the gum can detach some of the bad bacteria and debris that cling to your teeth. If left alone, that bad stuff would otherwise damage your precious enamel, causing issues like tooth sensitivity, decay, and bad breath.
3. Freshens Breath
Gum often has powerful flavors and scents, from spearmint and cinnamon to watermelon and berry, that give your mouth a boost of delicious fragrance. But instead of simply masking the foul odor like a breath mint, chewing sugarless gum (particularly kinds that contain xylitol) can actually help eradicate the lingering food particles and bacteria that are known to be sources of bad breath.
4. Curbs Candy Cravings
Last but certainly not least, we like chewing sugar-free gum because it keeps you from constantly indulging in sugary delights, such as candy. Candy is packed with sugar, and sugar feeds the bad bacteria in your mouth. In turn, well-fed bacteria accumulate and produce acids that destory enamel and irritate gums. Whenever possible, limit your consumption of candy and reach for a piece of sugarless gum instead.
Comprehensive Care in Tucson, AZ
Though chewing sugar-free gum is a great supplement to your oral hygiene, it is no substitue for daily at-home oral care and routine dental checkups and cleanings. Contact us with any questions about chewing gum or to book your next appointment at Stratman Family Dentistry.
